"President Barack Obama put a stop on Friday to new rules that would limit smog pollution, unexpectedly reversing course on a key policy measure after businesses said it would kill jobs and cost them billions of dollars."
"Obama said the decision to withdraw the draft Ozone National Ambient Air Quality Standard by the Environmental Protection Agency was part of an effort to reduce regulatory burdens for business.
The EPA has become a lightning rod for critics of government regulation and a hot-button issue for Republicans in the runup to the 2012 presidential campaign.
The move will be seen as another slap in the face for Obama's supporters on the left, a diverse group already concerned the administration has given in too quickly to big business and Republican pressure on debt-reduction and other issues."
Christopher Doering reports for Reuters September 5, 2011.
SEE ALSO:
"Obama's Decision on Smog Rule Offers Hints on Regulation Strategy" (Washington Post)
"Ozone Decision: the Final Green Straw?" (Politico)
"Stung by the President on Air Quality, Environmentalists Weigh Their Options" (New York Times)
"Obama Blows Smog in Everyone’S Face" (Grist)
"Obama to Breathers: Sorry, Wait Until 2013" (Mother Jones)
"Industry Victory: Obama Withdraws EPA's Stricter Smog Standards" (ENS)
"Rocky Mountain Doctors, Conservation Groups Blast Obama for Pulling Back Tougher Smog Standards" (Vail RealVail)
"A Debate Arises on Job Creation and Environment" (New York Times)
"Obama Spokesman Dismisses as "Ridiculous" Suggestion President Is Soft on Smog" (Houston Chronicle)
"Industry, GOP Applaud Smog Rules Delay" (Houston Chronicle)
"Obama Delays New Smog Standard" (National Journal)
"Obama Actions Choke 'Green' Backers" (Washington Times)
"Obama Scuttles New Smog Regulations" (Daily Kos)
"Obama Shelves EPA Smog Rule in Huge Defeat for Environmental Groups" (E2 Wire/The Hill)
"The President Makes the Right Call on Ozone" (US Chamber of Commerce)
"Obama Administration Delays Life-Saving Smog Standards" (Natural Resources Defence Council)
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