"E.P.A. Issues Rules on Disposal of Coal Ash to Protect Water Supply"

"WASHINGTON — The Environmental Protection Agency on Friday announced the first federal guidelines for disposing of coal ash, instructing power plants to implement safeguards against contaminating nearby water supplies.

But the agency did not require many of the restrictions that had been urged by environmentalists and other advocates, who point to studies showing coal ash — the material that remains when coal is burned to produce electricity — contains a significant amount of carcinogens.

'This rule is a pragmatic step forward that protects public health while allowing the industry the time it needs to meet these requirements,' said Gina McCarthy, the E.P.A. administrator."

Emmarie Huetteman reports for the New York Times December 19, 2014.

SEE ALSO:

"EPA Releases Long-Anticipated Rules For Disposal Of Coal Ash" (Huffington Post)

"EPA Releases Long-Anticipated Rules For Disposal Of Coal Ash" (Charlotte Observer)

"EPA Coal Ash Standards a Setback for Environmental Groups" (AP)

"Coal-Ash Rule Draws Environmentalist Complaints After Spills" (Bloomberg)

"First U.S. Coal Ash Rule Disappoints Environmental Groups" (ENS)