Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Gina McCarthy said the agency is considering a ban on certain hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), used in many industrial and consumer products, as part of the Obama administration's climate change efforts. The Clean Air Act allows the agency to restrict certain pollutants if there are available alternatives, though no HFC alternatives have been suggested. (Associated Press)
In a letter opposing the EPA's attempt to garnish the paychecks of polluters, Sen. David Vitter, Louisiana Republican, said while he understands the EPA's desire to efficiently collect debt, he was concerned it would give them too much power over citizens. (Associated Press)
Under Gina McCarthy, The EPA has been flexing its regulatory muscle, collecting more fines and hitting individuals with penalties for violating environmental rules. (Associated Press)