"President Barack Obama's pick to lead the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency told a Senate panel on Thursday that coal will remain important in the U.S. energy mix and that the EPA will be flexible in applying new pollution rules for coal-fired power plants."

"Gina McCarthy, EPA's assistant administrator for air and radiation, was questioned by Republicans on the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee on the agency's plans to roll out regulations soon to curb carbon emissions from power plants, blamed for contributing to global warming.

The Boston native is seeking confirmation by the Senate to replace Lisa Jackson, who resigned as EPA chief in February."

Valerie Volcovici reports for Reuters April 12, 2013. [2]

SEE ALSO:

"Barbara Boxer Reveals EPA Email Aliases During Gina McCarthy Hearing" (AP) [3]

"Environmental Questions Take Back Seat at Confirmation Hearing for E.P.A. Nominee" (New York Times) [4]

"Senate Republicans Question EPA Nominee Gina McCarthy" (Los Angeles Times) [5]

"Gina McCarthy, Nominee To Head EPA, Pledges Common-Sense Approach To Climate Change" (Washington Post) [6]

"EPA nominee Gina McCarthy doesn’t use IM" (Washington Post/In The Loop) [7]

"EPA Nominee Gina Mccarthy Is Grilled on Email, Transparency" (Politico) [8]