Trump Reverses Biden's Denial of Alabama Coal Waste Permit Bid

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on Monday proposed to approve Alabama's application to assume authority for issuing certain coal waste permits, a move that reverses a decision made during the Biden administration. This action aligns with a broader initiative under the Trump administration to devolve more regulatory power from federal agencies to state governments.

Under the proposed rule, Alabama would gain the authority to issue permits for the disposal of coal combustion residuals, commonly known as coal ash. This material is a byproduct of burning coal for electricity and can contain hazardous substances. The state would be responsible for ensuring compliance with federal environmental standards, though the EPA would retain oversight.

This decision follows a period of contention regarding Alabama's request. The Biden administration had previously denied the state's application, citing concerns about the state's capacity to adequately manage the environmental risks associated with coal ash disposal. Environmental groups had also voiced opposition, arguing that state-level oversight could lead to weaker protections compared to federal standards.

The Trump administration's approach has consistently favored decentralizing environmental regulation. This proposed approval for Alabama is consistent with that philosophy, aiming to streamline permitting processes and reduce the federal government's administrative burden. The EPA stated that the state has demonstrated it has the necessary legal authority, technical capability, and resources to implement the federal program.

The public will have a 30-day comment period to provide feedback on the proposed rule before a final decision is made. If approved, Alabama would join a small number of states that have received authorization to manage their own coal ash permitting programs.