Podcasts about epa administrator michael regan

We'd love to hear your thoughts on the podcast. Take the survey at wbur.org/survey. Florida is cleaning up after Hurricane Milton blew through the state, leaving millions without power. NPR's Greg Allen and Florida resident Tricia Rand join us to explain the impact of the storm. And, the Environmental Protection Agency finalized a rule requiring all lead pipes to be replaced in a decade. Federal officials say it will improve public health. EPA Administrator Michael Regan joins us. Then, longtime Palestinian rights activists, Huwaida Arraf and Adam Shapiro, live in Michigan. Many Arab Americans there are divided on whether to vote for Democrat Kamala Harris or for a third-party candidate in the 2024 election. Here & Now's Deepa Fernandes reports from Michigan.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

This Day in Legal History: Great Chicago FireOn October 8, 1871, the Great Chicago Fire ignited, marking one of the most devastating urban disasters in U.S. history. The fire burned for two days, fueled by dry conditions and wooden structures that dominated the cityscape. It destroyed over three square miles of Chicago, killing around 300 people and leaving 100,000 residents homeless. In the aftermath, the catastrophe highlighted the dangers of poor urban planning and inadequate fire-prevention measures.The devastation led to a complete overhaul of building codes and fire safety regulations. Chicago introduced stricter fire-resistant building requirements, mandating the use of materials like brick, stone, and iron instead of wood for new construction. The city also improved its firefighting infrastructure, investing in modernized equipment and more efficient water systems.These reforms had a ripple effect across the country, influencing urban development nationwide. Many U.S. cities adopted similar codes, fundamentally reshaping fire safety standards. Today, much of modern building regulations, including fire codes that require sprinkler systems and fireproof materials, can trace their origins back to the lessons learned from the Great Chicago Fire of October 8, 1871. The event is a lasting reminder of how disasters can drive lasting legal and regulatory changes.The U.S. Supreme Court recently heard arguments over whether a federal court can continue to oversee a consumer class action against Royal Canin and Purina after the plaintiffs amended their lawsuit to remove federal claims. The case involves claims from pet owners who argue that the companies misled them into believing prescription pet food was required and conspired to inflate prices. Initially filed in Missouri state court, the case moved to federal court after Purina's request. The companies' attorney, Katie Wellington, argued that federal jurisdiction should remain despite changes to the lawsuit, citing Congress's codification of supplemental jurisdiction principles. However, justices like Elena Kagan and Chief Justice John Roberts expressed skepticism, questioning whether a prior version of the lawsuit, no longer relevant, should dictate jurisdiction. Both seemed to support the companies argument initially but appeared to reconsider after hearing from the consumers' attorney, Ashley Keller, who maintained that the Eighth Circuit correctly returned the case to state court.The case's procedural history, including its back-and-forth between courts, complicates the jurisdictional question. The justices appeared to struggle with balancing precedents and whether altering the claims should impact the court where the case is heard. The broader question hinges on civil procedure and jurisdiction when a lawsuit is amended post-removal from state to federal court.The concept of supplemental jurisdiction, which allows federal courts to retain jurisdiction over state law claims if a case initially involves federal claims, even if the federal issues are later removed is central to the companies' argument.Supreme Court Wrestles With Venue in Prescription Pet Food FightFTX has received court approval to begin repaying billions of dollars to customers after its bankruptcy plan was approved by U.S. Bankruptcy Judge John Dorsey. The plan allows FTX to use up to $16.5 billion in recovered assets to repay customers affected by the crypto exchange's collapse. Under the plan, 98% of customers with claims of $50,000 or less will be repaid within 60 days of the plan's activation. FTX's bankruptcy was triggered by founder Sam Bankman-Fried's misappropriation of customer funds to cover risky bets made by his hedge fund, Alameda Research. Bankman-Fried was sentenced to 25 years in prison, and FTX has been recovering assets ever since.FTX will prioritize customer repayments over claims from U.S. government agencies like the IRS and Commodity Futures Trading Commission. The company has worked with global liquidators and settled various disputes to move forward with repayments. Some customers, however, are unhappy with the repayment structure, citing the rise in cryptocurrency prices since 2022, which they feel should be reflected in their recovery amounts. Despite these objections, FTX argues that it is not feasible to return the same crypto assets, as they were largely misappropriated.FTX cleared to repay billions to customers after bankruptcy plan approval | ReutersThe EPA has finalized the Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI), mandating an accelerated replacement of lead service lines in drinking water systems. The new rule requires replacing 10% of lead pipes annually over a decade, up from the previous 3%, with the process beginning in 2027. The EPA estimates that up to 9 million lead pipes remain in use across the U.S., posing significant health risks, especially to children. The rule also lowers the lead action level in drinking water from 0.015 to 0.010 milligrams per liter, triggering faster public notifications and filter distribution when lead is detected.The effort is backed by $15 billion from the 2021 infrastructure law, along with additional funding from the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund. It closes loopholes allowing extended replacement times and pressures homeowners to replace privately owned lead pipes. The rule reflects the Biden administration's emphasis on clean water as a priority, though legal challenges to the LCRI are expected. EPA Administrator Michael Regan reiterated that no level of lead in drinking water is safe due to its severe health impacts.EPA to Finalize Mass Lead Drinking Water Pipe Replacement PlanAnd in my column for Bloomberg this week, I talk a bit about a favorite bugbear of mine: film production tax incentives.California is losing its dominance in the film industry as productions move to other states and countries offering more attractive tax incentives. While expanding California's film tax credits might seem like an immediate solution, this approach could worsen the competition among states, leading to a "race to the bottom" in offering incentives. Instead, the state should focus on long-term solutions such as investing in infrastructure, green initiatives, and workforce development. These investments would create lasting economic benefits, rather than the temporary boosts provided by film tax credits.Tax credits for film productions have proven costly, with minimal sustained economic impact. Jobs created during productions are often short-lived, and sometimes the credits are sold, benefiting entities with no connection to the state. In contrast, California could use tax incentives to build shared production facilities and promote eco-friendly practices, lowering production costs and attracting filmmakers.Additionally, tying tax credits to workforce development through partnerships with educational institutions could create a skilled labor force within California. This would help sustain the industry locally while reducing the state's reliance on temporary incentives to compete with other regions. By investing in long-term infrastructure and labor, California can rebuild its film industry more sustainably. California Should Look Beyond Film Tax Credits to Boost Industry This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe

House votes on bills to require proof of U.S. citizenship to register to vote in federal elections and to block the Education Department's regulation to prohibit transgender discrimination at schools under Title IX, Senate Republicans block a Senate Democratic bill on abortion rights, President Biden visits AFL-CIO headquarters and speak at a NATO Summit working session, Senate committee hearing on rebuilding the collapse Key Bridge in Baltimore, House committee hearing with EPA Administrator Michael Regan. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Biden administration finalized a highly-anticipated suite of regulations aimed at cracking down on pollution from coal-fired and new natural gas power plants – a major move in the president's efforts to fight climate change. POLITICO's Alex Guillén breaks down the importance of the latest climate rules along with the expected political and legal challenges. Plus, the Energy Department finalized a new program that's expected to nearly halve the average time for federal permitting of new power lines.    For more news on energy and the environment, subscribe to Power Switch, our free evening newsletter: https://www.politico.com/power-switch And for even deeper coverage and analysis, read our Morning Energy newsletter by subscribing to POLITICO Pro:  https://subscriber.politicopro.com/newsletter-archive/morning-energy   Alex Guillén is an energy reporter for POLITICO Pro.  Catherine Morehouse is an energy reporter for POLITICO.  Nirmal Mulaikal is a POLITICO audio host-producer.  Annie Rees is a senior audio producer-host at POLITICO.  Gloria Gonzalez is the deputy energy editor for POLITICO.  Matt Daily is the energy editor for POLITICO.

This Day in Legal History: First French Execution by GuillotineOn April 25, 1792, a significant event in the history of capital punishment occurred in France: the first execution by guillotine. The individual subjected to this new method was Nicolas-Jacques Pelletier, a highwayman known for his criminal activities. The guillotine was introduced as a more humane method of execution, believed to offer a quick and less painful death compared to the previously used methods such as hanging or beheading with a sword or axe.The invention of the guillotine is often attributed to Dr. Joseph-Ignace Guillotin, although he did not actually design the device. Dr. Guillotin proposed the idea of a mechanical device to carry out executions more humanely, and the actual design was created by a French surgeon and a German engineer named Tobias Schmidt. The guillotine was seen as a democratic death, not distinguishing between the common man and the nobility.This first use of the guillotine took place at the Place de Grève in Paris and marked a turning point in the history of executions. The public's reaction was mixed, with some viewing it as a step forward in the pursuit of equality and justice, while others were horrified by its mechanical and impersonal nature.The guillotine would go on to become a symbol of the Reign of Terror during the French Revolution, with thousands of individuals, including King Louis XVI and Queen Marie Antoinette, meeting their end under its blade. Its use was intended to reflect Enlightenment values of rationality and fairness in punishment, but it also came to represent the harshness and excesses of revolutionary justice.The device continued to be used in France long after the Revolution, with the last guillotining occurring as late as 1977. It was eventually abolished in 1981 when France outlawed capital punishment altogether.This first execution by guillotine not only marked a change in the method of carrying out death penalties in France but also reflected broader shifts in social and political thought, emphasizing equality before the law and the influence of Enlightenment ideas on judicial practices.The U.S. Supreme Court is currently addressing the scope of presidential immunity in relation to former President Donald Trump's attempts to challenge the 2020 election results. Trump asserts that his actions, which are the basis of the criminal charges against him, were performed in his official capacity as president. However, prosecutors argue that his efforts to remain in power were not official presidential conduct.Legal experts and the court face the complex task of distinguishing between actions that are protected by presidential immunity and those that are not. The definition of an "official act" lacks clear legal grounding, not being explicitly detailed in the Constitution or federal statutes, but was rather shaped by the Supreme Court in the 1982 Nixon v. Fitzgerald case. This precedent established that the president has absolute immunity from civil suits for actions within the "outer perimeter" of official duties.Trump's reliance on this decision is central to his claim of absolute immunity against current charges, which include inciting the storming of the Capitol and pushing for election result alterations. However, the scope of what constitutes an official act is still debated, with contrasting views presented in recent court cases such as Blassingame v. Trump. Here, the actions Trump took around January 6 were seen more as those of a candidate rather than a president, suggesting limits to claims of immunity.Legal scholars are considering various criteria for presidential acts, including distinctions between campaign activities and official duties, and actions taken as commander in chief. Despite differing opinions, the possibility of Trump proving his actions were presidential is supported by some, emphasizing his role at the time in the White House and his directives for peace and national security.The complexities in defining presidential immunity highlight the challenges the courts face in applying it to specific cases, particularly when the acts in question blur the lines between official duties and personal or electoral ambitions. The legal community and the Supreme Court are now tasked with clarifying these boundaries, potentially leading to a nuanced or "mixed decision" regarding Trump's immunity.US Supreme Court to Parse Official Acts in Trump Immunity FightUS Supreme Court weighs Trump's bid for immunity from prosecution | ReutersThe Generative AI Copyright Disclosure Act, introduced by Rep. Adam Schiff, aims to mandate disclosure by AI developers of copyrighted works used in training their models. This legislative proposal has been met with applause from creators like writers and artists, who feel their rights might be better protected under such a law. However, developers are concerned about the feasibility and necessity of the requirement, highlighting the vast number of works involved and the complexities in identifying and cataloging them for disclosure.The debate touches on whether the use of millions of copyrighted works to train AI models constitutes copyright infringement. The issue is not clear-cut and is currently under legal scrutiny. The bill would require a detailed summary of copyrighted works used in AI training to be provided to the U.S. Copyright Office, a challenging task given the extensive scale of data used in training models.Critics argue that implementing such a law could stifle innovation by imposing cumbersome barriers that could disadvantage smaller AI developers. Some believe that a system for compensating creators could be workable, similar to mechanisms like the Music Modernization Act, which deals with streaming royalties. Yet, the potential administrative and financial burden of such compliance remains a significant concern.Advocates for AI suggest that learning by machines is akin to human learning processes, absorbing vast amounts of information to create new content. They argue that the proposed regulations could unduly restrict the development and application of AI technologies, which have broader potential benefits beyond just the arts, such as in coding and software development.The proposed bill has further stirred a significant debate on balancing copyright protection with the advancement of generative AI technologies, reflecting broader tensions between intellectual property rights and technological innovation.AI Copyright Bill Thrills Artists. Developers Call It UnworkableThe Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has finalized stricter air toxic standards targeting mercury and heavy metals emissions from coal-fired power plants. The new regulations, known as the Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS), aim to significantly reduce the emissions of mercury, particularly from plants using coal and lignite, a type of coal with a higher toxic content. These updated standards are projected to cut mercury emissions by 67% from coal-fired plants and 70% from lignite-powered facilities.This final action represents the most substantial update to the MATS since their inception in 2012. The EPA reintroduced the legal basis for these standards by reaffirming the Clean Air Act's provision that deems these regulations "appropriate and necessary." This move reverses a decision made in 2020 by the Trump administration, which had removed this crucial underpinning, leaving the regulations legally exposed.The broader implications of the updated MATS include reductions not only in mercury but also in other hazardous pollutants such as sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides. EPA Administrator Michael Regan emphasized that this suite of actions would address the comprehensive range of threats posed by power plants to air quality. The EPA's commitment to stringent enforcement of these standards reflects an ongoing effort to mitigate environmental health risks, particularly the neurological impacts of mercury exposure on children.EPA Finalizes Tougher Mercury Standards for Coal-Fired UtilitiesRudolph Giuliani has initiated efforts to dismiss a lawsuit critical to his bankruptcy proceedings. The lawsuit stems from a $148 million judgment awarded to Georgia election workers Ruby Freeman and Wandrea' ArShaye “Shaye” Moss, who successfully sued Giuliani for defamation. Giuliani had accused them of election fraud, a claim found to be false by the court. This judgment constitutes the majority of Giuliani's overall debt.Freeman and Moss, in their February lawsuit, argued that the debt Giuliani owes cannot be discharged in bankruptcy because it was incurred through "willful and malicious injury." Giuliani, who filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy after losing the defamation case, contends that his actions were neither willful nor malicious. He is seeking dismissal of the suit, having recently failed in an attempt to have the judgment amount reduced. Freeman and Moss are represented by Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP, while Giuliani's legal representation is provided by Berger, Fischoff, Shumer, Wexler & Goodman, LLP. The ongoing legal battle is being observed under the case Freeman et al v. Giuliani in the Southern District of New York Bankruptcy Court.Giuliani Looks to Toss Bankruptcy Lawsuit Over ‘Malicious' ClaimIn a contribution I wrote for Forbes yesterday, April 24th, I discussed President Biden's proposal, detailed in the Budget of the United States Government for Fiscal Year 2025, to raise capital gains rates. This proposal has generated considerable buzz, particularly around the potential new rate of 44.6% for long-term capital gains and qualified dividends. However, this figure isn't as straightforward as it may seem.The 44.6% rate originates from a footnote in the General Explanations of the Administration's Fiscal Year 2025 Revenue Proposals. It combines a proposed increase in the top ordinary rate to 39.6% with an additional proposal to raise the net investment income tax rate by 1.2 percentage points for incomes above $400,000. Collectively, these changes would elevate the top marginal rate on specific investment incomes to 44.6%, but only for those with incomes exceeding $1 million.This rate is not a blanket increase but rather applies under specific conditions, which mitigates the initial shock of such a high figure. The broader argument I presented is that the portrayal of the 44.6% rate by some conservative commentators and outlets serves more as a strategic maneuver to engage public sentiment and political debate rather than a straightforward recitation of the policy. This tactic obscures the actual impact of the proposal, which is primarily targeted at perhaps less-sympathetic very high earners, rather than the general public.The real intent of the policy seems to be to level the playing field between those with high ordinary incomes and those who earn significantly through investments. This is a response to the oft-cited fact that American ultra-rich typically pay a much lower average effective income tax rate. The policy is incremental, aiming to ensure that the wealthiest contribute a fairer share of taxes, without the need to stir undue alarm among ordinary taxpayers. Thus, the focus on high income taxpayers is meant to address disparities in tax contributions without affecting smaller business owners disproportionately.Biden Capital Gains Rate Proposal: 44.6%? Get full access to Minimum Competence - Daily Legal News Podcast at www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe

Vice President Kamala Harris is making another trip to Charlotte to discuss the White House's investment in climate action under the Biden administration.  On Thursday, Harris will be joined by EPA Administrator Michael Regan, who is a native North Carolinian. This week's stop marks the fourth trip to North Carolina for Harris this year. Harris and President Joe Biden were in Raleigh last week to promote the expansion of Medicaid, lowering prescription costs for seniors and expanding the Affordable Care Act. Read more: https://www.wcnc.com/article/news/politics/north-carolina-politics/kamala-harris-charlotte-visit-climate-change-investment/275-3c9714cd-17b2-4e46-881c-74d5d9b44cf1 Watch WCNC Charlotte each weekday morning from 4:30 to 7 a.m.WCNC Charlotte To Go is a daily news and weather podcast you can listen to so you can start your day with the team at WCNC Charlotte.  SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcasts || Spotify || Pandora || TuneIn || Google Podcasts || iHeartAll of WCNC Charlotte's podcasts are free and available for both streaming and download. You can listen now on Android, iPhone, Amazon, and other internet-connected devices. Join us from North Carolina, South Carolina, or on the go anywhere.Click here to sign up for the daily WCNC Charlotte newsletter

Donald Trump tries to walk back his comments on cutting Medicare and Social Security while Joe Biden goes on offense during a campaign swing in Wisconsin and Michigan. Kamala Harris becomes the highest ranking government official to visit an abortion clinic and RFK Jr. praises Aaron Rodgers as a "critical thinker" after he's reported to be a Sandy Hook truther. Later, EPA Administrator Michael Regan stops by the studio to talk to Tommy about clean energy and environmental justice.

In a surprise move, the Environmental Protection Agency announced it was separating and postponing a major piece of its power plant rule last week, and the decision is receiving mixed reaction from greens. POLITICO's Alex Guillén breaks down EPA's decision and the political and climate risks. Plus, EPA is strengthening its risk management requirements for oil refineries, chemical producers, agricultural distributors and thousands of other industrial sites.   For more news on energy and the environment, subscribe to Power Switch, our free evening newsletter: https://www.politico.com/power-switch And for even deeper coverage and analysis, read our Morning Energy newsletter by subscribing to POLITICO Pro:  https://subscriber.politicopro.com/newsletter-archive/morning-energy   Josh Siegel is an energy reporter for POLITICO.  Alex Guillén is an energy reporter for POLITICO Pro.  Nirmal Mulaikal is a POLITICO audio host-producer.  Annie Rees is a senior audio producer-host at POLITICO.  Gloria Gonzalez is the deputy energy editor for POLITICO.  Matt Daily is the energy editor for POLITICO.

Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack and EPA Administrator Michael Regan were in Houston today to share updates from Washington, including what is happening and what will need a little more time. Hear which was which in today's DriveTime.

California is trying to implement sweeping climate change policies before a potential second Donald Trump presidency. But the state is running into a growing backlog of federal approvals that are in the hands of President Joe Biden's EPA, potentially giving Trump an opportunity to weaken California's unique climate authority if he wins again in 2024. POLITICO's Blanca Begert breaks down why California's climate policies are on the clock at EPA. Plus, the oil industry is blasting the Biden administration's decision to review whether it should consider climate impacts when assessing liquefied natural gas export projects.    For more news on energy and the environment, subscribe to Power Switch, our free evening newsletter: https://www.politico.com/power-switch And for even deeper coverage and analysis, read our Morning Energy newsletter by subscribing to POLITICO Pro: https://subscriber.politicopro.com/newsletter-archive/morning-energy   Josh Siegel is an energy reporter for POLITICO.  Blanca Begert is a California climate reporter for POLITICO.  Nirmal Mulaikal is a POLITICO audio host-producer.  Annie Rees is a senior audio producer-host at POLITICO.  Gloria Gonzalez is the deputy energy editor for POLITICO.  Matt Daily is the energy editor for POLITICO.    

EPA Administrator Michael Regan discusses the strength US climate initiatives and the impact on business with Bloomberg's Yousef Gamal El-Din.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bob Bosold visits with Eric Rygg, president and CEO of Huntsinger Farms in Eau Claire, the world's largest producer of horseradish. The farm recently hosted EPA Administrator Michael Regan. Rygg says the sustainability practices on the farm are what attracted the EPA, such as their solar array, water retention ponds, cover crops, and precision technology. Beef on dairy – farmers have been interested in it for a few years now, and it's only gaining momentum. Tom Earleywine, director of nutritional services with Purina Feed, says the industry is in a critical time now where it needs to provide the best animals in order to secure a market before the beef herd comes back. How much does a farmer need to retire? Jared Nelson, financial advisor with Rural Mutual Insurance, talks retirement planning with Mid-West Farm Report. He says the transition to retirement is the hardest part, and recommends farmers get a part-time job to help ease into the next phase in life.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this week's episode of the Agri-Biz Show, Senate Ag Committee ranking member John Boozman visited Fargo for a farm bill listening session with Senators Kevin Cramer and John Hoeven, along with Ag Commissioner Doug Goehring. Lawmakers are doubtful that Congress will pass a new farm bill before the current law expires at the end of September. In agronomy news, spider mites are being reported around the region due to hot and dry weather conditions. In a potential blow to equipment manufacturers, EPA Administrator Michael Regan says the Clean Air Act doesn't prevent farmers or independent repair shops from making emissions repairs to agriculture equipment. Hosted by Rusty Halvorson.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is Jami Martin-Trainor, a summer intern for The Gazette, and I'm here with your news update for Thursday, June 22nd 2023. Today's weather is looking similar to yesterday, with a sunny high of 91. The evening is mostly clear with a low of 67.Iowa Gov. Reynolds settles 3 lawsuits regarding delayed open records requestsIowa Governor Kim Reynolds has agreed to settlements in three lawsuits that alleged her office violated state law by failing to respond to open records requests in a timely manner.Under the terms of one settlement, the governor's office agreed to allow a state district court to resolve any future open records disputes with three plaintiffs that may arise over the next year.The settlements were approved Wednesday afternoon by the Iowa State Appeals Board. Now, they must be given final approval by a district court judge.The state will pay roughly $135,000 — the entirety of which will cover legal fees — to settle Belin v. Reynolds, according to state records. In that case, two Iowa news organizations and an advocacy group for government transparency argued the governor's office violated state open records laws by taking between five and 18 months to fulfill open records requests in 2020 and 2021.The governor's office fulfilled the requests in January of 2022, a month after the lawsuit was filed. The governor's office then tried to have the lawsuit dismissed because, its attorneys argued, the suit was no longer necessary after the records requests were fulfilled.A condition of the settlement is that the governor's office does not admit to a violation of state law.Consulting firm will help Iowa City determine if City Park Pool should be renovated or replacedIowa City will likely have an answer this fall on if the seven-decade old City Park Pool should be repaired or replaced.The Iowa City Council unanimously approved an agreement on Tuesday not to exceed $99,950 between the city and an Illinois engineering firm.Repairs or construction of a new facility will be targeted after the 2024 season, and the facility will be closed in 2025.The city said the pool loses 30,000 gallons of water per day. That is over three times the standard amount of water loss per day, according to the city.City representatives have also said the main pool gutter is worn and abrasive, and residents have complained of minor scrapes as a result. Additionally, the pool house structure and mechanical equipment do not meet modern safety expectations.The discussion surrounding the city's aquatic facilities has received attention from the public over the last year. City Park Pool is the oldest of Iowa City's three pools, and is the city's only outdoor pool.Residents have raised concerns about how the 73-year-old City Park Pool will be renovated and the lack of details so far. At Tuesday's meeting, residents and council members expressed how discussions are heading in the right direction.Iowa officials disappointed in EPA rule on biofuels mandatesIowa Republican lawmakers and biofuels interest groups expressed disappointment on Wednesday after the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency finalized a rule regarding the amount of corn-based ethanol that oil refiners must blend into the nation's fuel mix over the next three years.While increasing blending volumes overall by raising the level for advanced biofuels, the new rule includes lower mandates for ethanol in 2024 and 2025 than the EPA had initially proposed. Industry officials, farm advocates and members of Iowa's congressional delegation said the levels ignore production capacity and projected growth in biofuels. The industry is an important market for Iowa farmers, with more than half of the state's corn being used to produce ethanol.EPA Administrator Michael Regan said the final rule will reduce...

Today's DriveTime features comments from EPA Administrator Michael Regan's appearance on Capitol Hill as well as Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack's announcement of money headed to regional food supply chain infrastructure. 

Today's DriveTime features comments from EPA Administrator Michael Regan's appearance on Capitol Hill as well as Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack's announcement of money headed to regional food supply chain infrastructure. 

EPA Approves Summertime Waiver for E15 - Again Renewble Fuels Association Senior VP, Government & Public Affairs Troy Bredenkamp With audio from EPA Administrator Michael Regan, Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-IA), and Rep. Rusty Johnson (R-SD)

Friday's AOA kicked off with Dennis Smith, from Archer Financial Services, and he looked ahead to Friday's Cattle on Feed report and discussed the bullish momentum that continues in the cattle trade. Kurt Kovarik, Director of Federal Policy at Clean Fuels Alliance America discussed the House Ag Committee testimony by EPA Administrator Michael Regan on biomass based diesel. In segment 3, Jacqui Fatka, Associate Editor of Agri-Pulse provided some background on the debt ceiling negotiations and how they could interact with the SNAP discussions for the '23 Farm Bill. The episode closed with Mike Steenhoek, Executive Director of the Soy Transportation Coalition, with an update on labor disputes at the West Coast ports and rail service reliability.

A farm group shares its thoughts ahead of EPA Administrator Michael Regan heading up to testify before the House Ag Committee tomorrow and a decision could be made any day now on Proposition 12. All that and more in today's DriveTime.

A farm group shares its thoughts ahead of EPA Administrator Michael Regan heading up to testify before the House Ag Committee tomorrow and a decision could be made any day now on Proposition 12. All that and more in today's DriveTime.

This is Garrison Hardie with your CrossPolitic Daily News Brief for Thursday, April 13th, 2023. Fight Laugh Feast Conference - Ark Encounter This year, our Fight Laugh Feast Conference is at the Ark Encounter in Kentucky on The Politics of Six Day Creation. The politics of six day creation is the difference between a fixed standard of justice and a careening standard of justice, the difference between the corrosive relativism that creates mobs and anarchy and the freedom of objectivity, truth, and due process. The politics of six day creation establishes the authority and sufficiency of God’s Word for all of life: from what is a man or a woman, when does human life begin, and how is human society best organized? Come hear Ken Ham, Pastor Doug Wilson, Dr. Ben Merkle, Dr. Gordon Wilson, me and more, and of course a live CrossPolitic show! Mark your calendars for October 11th-14th, as we fight, laugh, and feast, with beer & psalms, our amazing lineup of speakers, our Rowdy Christian Merch, and a Sabbath Feast to wrap up the occasion. Maybe an infant baptism while we’re at it! Visit fightlaughfeast.com for more information! Now ladies and gentleman… I have some audio for you to listen to. Listen to this exchange between Elon Musk, and a BBC reporter. A warning… Elon slaughters this “journalist”. Seeing as this is audio, just know I use air quotes when I say journalist. 'You Just Lied': Elon Musk Slaughters BBC Reporter In Live Interview-Play Video That ladies and gentleman, is the state of journalism these days. Now, let’s get to the news: https://www.foxnews.com/politics/farmers-score-victory-biden-admin-judge-pauses-controversial-eco-rules Farmers score victory over Biden admin as judge pauses controversial eco rules A federal judge granted a request Wednesday from a coalition of 24 states and several industry groups to block environmental regulations redefining how water sources are protected. Judge Daniel Hovland of the U.S. District Court for the District of North Dakota ruled that the so-called Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule announced by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in late December poses "great" risks to states. The judge also ruled that the federal government should wait until the Supreme Court soon rules on a related case pending before it. On Dec. 30, the final working day of 2022, the EPA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers quietly announced they had approved the WOTUS regulation and that it would be implemented in March. After announcing it, EPA Administrator Michael Regan said the rule "safeguards our nation’s waters." The rule ultimately opens the door for the federal government to regulate wetlands, lakes, ponds, streams and "relatively permanent" waterways, largely mimicking a pre-2015 environmental rule set during the Obama administration which implemented the changes in an effort to curb water pollution. The regulation is a broad interpretation of which water sources require protection under the Clean Water Act. However, in its lawsuit filed in February, the 24-state coalition — led by West Virginia, Georgia, Iowa and North Dakota — argued the regulations were an example of federal overreach and an attack on their sovereign authority regulating bodies of water and surrounding land. A series of industry groups — including the American Farm Bureau Federation, American Petroleum Institute, National Association of Realtors, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, National Corn Growers Association and National Mining Association — also entered the lawsuit as intervenor-plaintiffs. Meanwhile, the Senate and House both passed a bipartisan resolution earlier this year overturning the WOTUS regulation. President Biden vetoed the bill on April 6. https://www.theepochtimes.com/biden-admin-unveils-rule-to-force-67-percent-of-cars-sold-to-be-electric-by-2032_5189758.html?utm_source=partner&utm_campaign=BonginoReport US Unveils Toughest-Ever Car Emissions Rule in Bid to Force Surge in EV Purchases President Joe Biden further accelerated the nation’s switch to electric vehicles by announcing two proposed federal rule changes aimed at reducing greenhouse gases and other pollutants in motor vehicle emissions. The changes, announced on April 12, would affect virtually all gasoline-powered vehicles on U.S. highways, save consumers an estimated $12,000 in fuel and maintenance costs over the life of a vehicle, and avoid almost 10 billion tons of carbon dioxide emissions through 2055, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The move aims to further the president’s goal of having 50 percent of all new cars and light trucks and 30 percent of new medium- and heavy-duty trucks sold in 2030 be zero-emission vehicles. Electric vehicles (EVs) are considered zero-emission vehicles. The EPA estimates that approval of these rules would result in 67 percent of new passenger vehicles and light trucks being EVs by 2032, along with 50 percent of buses, 35 percent of short-haul freight tractors, and 25 percent of long-haul freight tractors. Critics have claimed that the move, which will increase the price of new cars, was made without consideration of the ability of the nation’s supply chain to meet the demand. The Biden administration has spent roughly $31 billion on the development of so-called clean transportation over the past two years, including the development of a network of EV charging stations, improving the supply chain for materials needed to produce EV batteries, and making loans to companies that manufacture EVs and EV components in the United States. General Motors, Ford, and Stellantis—the maker of Chrysler, Fiat, Ram, and Jeep brands—stated in 2021 that they would aim to reach EV sales of at least 40 percent of all their new vehicle sales by 2030. The rule change comes 10 months after six major automakers pledged to stop selling gas and diesel-powered cars worldwide by 2040. Speaking of hemoraging money… https://thepoliticalinsider.com/federal-government-borrowing-astronomical-6-billion-per-day/ Federal Government Borrowing Astronomical $6 Billion Per Day The U.S. Congressional Budget Office said Monday the federal government has accumulated more than a trillion dollars in debt only six months into the fiscal year. The Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget released a report pointing out that those figures amount to an average of $6 billion per day so far in fiscal year 2023. The data figures come as Republicans and Democrats approach a deadline to raise the debt ceiling or face defaulting on the national debt, an unprecedented event that would have huge ramifications for the U.S. and global economy. Republicans have pointed to those figures as proof of the need for spending cuts. President Joe Biden, though, has shown no interest in negotiating. Democrats argue the fiscal deadline is too risky to play with in negotiations. The CRFB said if nothing changes, the annual deficit will hit $3 trillion by the end of this decade. Down to Florida we go… https://www.dailyfetched.com/florida-lawmakers-prepare-to-pass-measure-to-permit-death-penalty-for-pedophiles/ Florida Lawmakers Prepare to Pass Measure to Permit DEATH PENALTY for Pedophiles The House will consider its version of the bill (HB 1297) after (SB 1342) was cleared on Tuesday by the Rules Committee, as it readies for the bill to be presented to the full Senate. For decades, the U.S. Supreme Court and Florida Supreme Court rulings have prohibited the execution of child rapists and sexual abuse cases. The last time someone was executed for a non-murder offense in the U.S. was 1964, according to a Senate staff analysis. However, the House and Senate bills argue that a Florida Supreme Court case in1981 and a U.S. Supreme Court case in 2008 were both “wrongly decided.” The Senate version declared the cases represent an “egregious infringement of the state’s power to punish the most heinous of crimes.” The bill’s sponsor, former prosecutor turned Republican state senator Jonathan Martin, said the legislation would allow for “constitutional boundaries by providing a sentencing procedure for those heinous crimes.” “If an individual rapes an 11-year-old, a 10-year-old, a 2-year-old or a 5-year-old, they should be subject to the death penalty,” Martin said Tuesday. As Red State reports: The legislation inevitably has drawn criticism, with Aaron Wyat of the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers pointing out that although people want “vengeance” against pedophiles, the death penalty would represent an overturning of decades of legal precedent. “This bill invites a longer, costlier (legal) process for the victim and their family that they will endure,” Wayt said. “While this crime, anyone convicted of it is vile, heinous, the Constitution itself, the case law, the Supreme Court demands a maximum of life in prison. And so while it’s not the vengeance we all want, it’s the justice that the Constitution demands,” Wayt added. Meanwhile, left-leaning Slate Magazine argued a “sentence of life without parole is a harsh and severe punishment,” even for pedophiles. Despite the media pushback, the bill has attracted support from some Democrats, including Senate Minority Leader Lauren Book, who suffered sexual abuse as a child and founded the advocacy organization Lauren’s Kids. Gov. Ron DeSantis is expected to sign off on this legislation after voicing support for the death penalty for pedophiles. https://www.foxnews.com/politics/trump-sues-michael-cohen-for-500-million Trump sues former attorney Michael Cohen for $500 million Former President Donald Trump is suing his ex-lawyer Michael Cohen for more than $500 million, alleging a breach of his attorney-client relationship, unjust enrichment, and more, Fox News Digital has learned. Trump’s legal team filed the more-than 30-page federal lawsuit in U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida on Wednesday. The lawsuit alleges Cohen breached his attorney-client relationship by "spreading falsehoods" about Trump that were "likely to be embarrassing or detrimental, and partook in other misconduct," while also breaching contractual terms of a confidentiality agreement he signed as a condition of employment with Trump. The lawsuit alleges Cohen spread falsehoods about Trump "with malicious intent and to wholly self-serving ends." The lawsuit details Cohen’s "myriad of public statements, including the publication of two books, a podcast series, and innumerable mainstream media appearances," while ignoring "cease and desist" orders. It claims Cohen has, in recent months, "increased the frequency and hostility of the illicit acts" and "appears to have become emboldened and repeatedly continues to make wrongful and false statements" about Trump through various platforms. The lawsuit comes a week after the former president pleaded not guilty in Manhattan court to 34 felony counts of falsifying business records in New York, related to alleged hush money payments made ahead of the 2016 presidential election. https://www.breitbart.com/sports/2023/04/11/nc-state-senator-moves-to-ban-participation-trophies/ NC State Senator Moves to Ban Participation Trophies Coffee is for closers, and if a state senator in North Carolina has his way, trophies at state-sponsored events will be for winners and winners only. North Carolina State Senator Timothy Moffitt (R) introduced the “Eliminate Participation Trophies Act” on Thursday, known in the legislature as SB 430. If passed, the bill would ban the awarding of trophies to children at state-sponsored athletic events simply for participating in the event. “Youth sports or other youth recreation activities operated under the authority of a local government shall not include awards for participants based solely on their participation in the sport or other activity,” the proposed law states. “Awards provided in connection with the activity, if any, shall be based on identified performance achievements.” Moffitt and the bill’s co-sponsors, Republican Senators Bobby Hanig and Eddie Settle say the bill will apply only to state-sponsored youth events. Though, no ages are listed explicitly in the bill. Many argue that participation trophies aren’t that big of a deal. After all, awarding trophies for merely showing up tends to fade out once kids progress past pee-wees and enter the junior high ranks. However, proponents of laws such as Moffitt’s will point to things like the Colts’ 2014 AFC Finalist Banner: Clearly, the participation trophy culture has made its way past pee-wees. Is it worth passing a law? The North Carolina legislature will soon decide.

This is Garrison Hardie with your CrossPolitic Daily News Brief for Thursday, April 13th, 2023. Fight Laugh Feast Conference - Ark Encounter This year, our Fight Laugh Feast Conference is at the Ark Encounter in Kentucky on The Politics of Six Day Creation. The politics of six day creation is the difference between a fixed standard of justice and a careening standard of justice, the difference between the corrosive relativism that creates mobs and anarchy and the freedom of objectivity, truth, and due process. The politics of six day creation establishes the authority and sufficiency of God’s Word for all of life: from what is a man or a woman, when does human life begin, and how is human society best organized? Come hear Ken Ham, Pastor Doug Wilson, Dr. Ben Merkle, Dr. Gordon Wilson, me and more, and of course a live CrossPolitic show! Mark your calendars for October 11th-14th, as we fight, laugh, and feast, with beer & psalms, our amazing lineup of speakers, our Rowdy Christian Merch, and a Sabbath Feast to wrap up the occasion. Maybe an infant baptism while we’re at it! Visit fightlaughfeast.com for more information! Now ladies and gentleman… I have some audio for you to listen to. Listen to this exchange between Elon Musk, and a BBC reporter. A warning… Elon slaughters this “journalist”. Seeing as this is audio, just know I use air quotes when I say journalist. 'You Just Lied': Elon Musk Slaughters BBC Reporter In Live Interview-Play Video That ladies and gentleman, is the state of journalism these days. Now, let’s get to the news: https://www.foxnews.com/politics/farmers-score-victory-biden-admin-judge-pauses-controversial-eco-rules Farmers score victory over Biden admin as judge pauses controversial eco rules A federal judge granted a request Wednesday from a coalition of 24 states and several industry groups to block environmental regulations redefining how water sources are protected. Judge Daniel Hovland of the U.S. District Court for the District of North Dakota ruled that the so-called Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule announced by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in late December poses "great" risks to states. The judge also ruled that the federal government should wait until the Supreme Court soon rules on a related case pending before it. On Dec. 30, the final working day of 2022, the EPA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers quietly announced they had approved the WOTUS regulation and that it would be implemented in March. After announcing it, EPA Administrator Michael Regan said the rule "safeguards our nation’s waters." The rule ultimately opens the door for the federal government to regulate wetlands, lakes, ponds, streams and "relatively permanent" waterways, largely mimicking a pre-2015 environmental rule set during the Obama administration which implemented the changes in an effort to curb water pollution. The regulation is a broad interpretation of which water sources require protection under the Clean Water Act. However, in its lawsuit filed in February, the 24-state coalition — led by West Virginia, Georgia, Iowa and North Dakota — argued the regulations were an example of federal overreach and an attack on their sovereign authority regulating bodies of water and surrounding land. A series of industry groups — including the American Farm Bureau Federation, American Petroleum Institute, National Association of Realtors, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, National Corn Growers Association and National Mining Association — also entered the lawsuit as intervenor-plaintiffs. Meanwhile, the Senate and House both passed a bipartisan resolution earlier this year overturning the WOTUS regulation. President Biden vetoed the bill on April 6. https://www.theepochtimes.com/biden-admin-unveils-rule-to-force-67-percent-of-cars-sold-to-be-electric-by-2032_5189758.html?utm_source=partner&utm_campaign=BonginoReport US Unveils Toughest-Ever Car Emissions Rule in Bid to Force Surge in EV Purchases President Joe Biden further accelerated the nation’s switch to electric vehicles by announcing two proposed federal rule changes aimed at reducing greenhouse gases and other pollutants in motor vehicle emissions. The changes, announced on April 12, would affect virtually all gasoline-powered vehicles on U.S. highways, save consumers an estimated $12,000 in fuel and maintenance costs over the life of a vehicle, and avoid almost 10 billion tons of carbon dioxide emissions through 2055, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The move aims to further the president’s goal of having 50 percent of all new cars and light trucks and 30 percent of new medium- and heavy-duty trucks sold in 2030 be zero-emission vehicles. Electric vehicles (EVs) are considered zero-emission vehicles. The EPA estimates that approval of these rules would result in 67 percent of new passenger vehicles and light trucks being EVs by 2032, along with 50 percent of buses, 35 percent of short-haul freight tractors, and 25 percent of long-haul freight tractors. Critics have claimed that the move, which will increase the price of new cars, was made without consideration of the ability of the nation’s supply chain to meet the demand. The Biden administration has spent roughly $31 billion on the development of so-called clean transportation over the past two years, including the development of a network of EV charging stations, improving the supply chain for materials needed to produce EV batteries, and making loans to companies that manufacture EVs and EV components in the United States. General Motors, Ford, and Stellantis—the maker of Chrysler, Fiat, Ram, and Jeep brands—stated in 2021 that they would aim to reach EV sales of at least 40 percent of all their new vehicle sales by 2030. The rule change comes 10 months after six major automakers pledged to stop selling gas and diesel-powered cars worldwide by 2040. Speaking of hemoraging money… https://thepoliticalinsider.com/federal-government-borrowing-astronomical-6-billion-per-day/ Federal Government Borrowing Astronomical $6 Billion Per Day The U.S. Congressional Budget Office said Monday the federal government has accumulated more than a trillion dollars in debt only six months into the fiscal year. The Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget released a report pointing out that those figures amount to an average of $6 billion per day so far in fiscal year 2023. The data figures come as Republicans and Democrats approach a deadline to raise the debt ceiling or face defaulting on the national debt, an unprecedented event that would have huge ramifications for the U.S. and global economy. Republicans have pointed to those figures as proof of the need for spending cuts. President Joe Biden, though, has shown no interest in negotiating. Democrats argue the fiscal deadline is too risky to play with in negotiations. The CRFB said if nothing changes, the annual deficit will hit $3 trillion by the end of this decade. Down to Florida we go… https://www.dailyfetched.com/florida-lawmakers-prepare-to-pass-measure-to-permit-death-penalty-for-pedophiles/ Florida Lawmakers Prepare to Pass Measure to Permit DEATH PENALTY for Pedophiles The House will consider its version of the bill (HB 1297) after (SB 1342) was cleared on Tuesday by the Rules Committee, as it readies for the bill to be presented to the full Senate. For decades, the U.S. Supreme Court and Florida Supreme Court rulings have prohibited the execution of child rapists and sexual abuse cases. The last time someone was executed for a non-murder offense in the U.S. was 1964, according to a Senate staff analysis. However, the House and Senate bills argue that a Florida Supreme Court case in1981 and a U.S. Supreme Court case in 2008 were both “wrongly decided.” The Senate version declared the cases represent an “egregious infringement of the state’s power to punish the most heinous of crimes.” The bill’s sponsor, former prosecutor turned Republican state senator Jonathan Martin, said the legislation would allow for “constitutional boundaries by providing a sentencing procedure for those heinous crimes.” “If an individual rapes an 11-year-old, a 10-year-old, a 2-year-old or a 5-year-old, they should be subject to the death penalty,” Martin said Tuesday. As Red State reports: The legislation inevitably has drawn criticism, with Aaron Wyat of the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers pointing out that although people want “vengeance” against pedophiles, the death penalty would represent an overturning of decades of legal precedent. “This bill invites a longer, costlier (legal) process for the victim and their family that they will endure,” Wayt said. “While this crime, anyone convicted of it is vile, heinous, the Constitution itself, the case law, the Supreme Court demands a maximum of life in prison. And so while it’s not the vengeance we all want, it’s the justice that the Constitution demands,” Wayt added. Meanwhile, left-leaning Slate Magazine argued a “sentence of life without parole is a harsh and severe punishment,” even for pedophiles. Despite the media pushback, the bill has attracted support from some Democrats, including Senate Minority Leader Lauren Book, who suffered sexual abuse as a child and founded the advocacy organization Lauren’s Kids. Gov. Ron DeSantis is expected to sign off on this legislation after voicing support for the death penalty for pedophiles. https://www.foxnews.com/politics/trump-sues-michael-cohen-for-500-million Trump sues former attorney Michael Cohen for $500 million Former President Donald Trump is suing his ex-lawyer Michael Cohen for more than $500 million, alleging a breach of his attorney-client relationship, unjust enrichment, and more, Fox News Digital has learned. Trump’s legal team filed the more-than 30-page federal lawsuit in U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida on Wednesday. The lawsuit alleges Cohen breached his attorney-client relationship by "spreading falsehoods" about Trump that were "likely to be embarrassing or detrimental, and partook in other misconduct," while also breaching contractual terms of a confidentiality agreement he signed as a condition of employment with Trump. The lawsuit alleges Cohen spread falsehoods about Trump "with malicious intent and to wholly self-serving ends." The lawsuit details Cohen’s "myriad of public statements, including the publication of two books, a podcast series, and innumerable mainstream media appearances," while ignoring "cease and desist" orders. It claims Cohen has, in recent months, "increased the frequency and hostility of the illicit acts" and "appears to have become emboldened and repeatedly continues to make wrongful and false statements" about Trump through various platforms. The lawsuit comes a week after the former president pleaded not guilty in Manhattan court to 34 felony counts of falsifying business records in New York, related to alleged hush money payments made ahead of the 2016 presidential election. https://www.breitbart.com/sports/2023/04/11/nc-state-senator-moves-to-ban-participation-trophies/ NC State Senator Moves to Ban Participation Trophies Coffee is for closers, and if a state senator in North Carolina has his way, trophies at state-sponsored events will be for winners and winners only. North Carolina State Senator Timothy Moffitt (R) introduced the “Eliminate Participation Trophies Act” on Thursday, known in the legislature as SB 430. If passed, the bill would ban the awarding of trophies to children at state-sponsored athletic events simply for participating in the event. “Youth sports or other youth recreation activities operated under the authority of a local government shall not include awards for participants based solely on their participation in the sport or other activity,” the proposed law states. “Awards provided in connection with the activity, if any, shall be based on identified performance achievements.” Moffitt and the bill’s co-sponsors, Republican Senators Bobby Hanig and Eddie Settle say the bill will apply only to state-sponsored youth events. Though, no ages are listed explicitly in the bill. Many argue that participation trophies aren’t that big of a deal. After all, awarding trophies for merely showing up tends to fade out once kids progress past pee-wees and enter the junior high ranks. However, proponents of laws such as Moffitt’s will point to things like the Colts’ 2014 AFC Finalist Banner: Clearly, the participation trophy culture has made its way past pee-wees. Is it worth passing a law? The North Carolina legislature will soon decide.

This is Garrison Hardie with your CrossPolitic Daily News Brief for Thursday, April 13th, 2023. Fight Laugh Feast Conference - Ark Encounter This year, our Fight Laugh Feast Conference is at the Ark Encounter in Kentucky on The Politics of Six Day Creation. The politics of six day creation is the difference between a fixed standard of justice and a careening standard of justice, the difference between the corrosive relativism that creates mobs and anarchy and the freedom of objectivity, truth, and due process. The politics of six day creation establishes the authority and sufficiency of God’s Word for all of life: from what is a man or a woman, when does human life begin, and how is human society best organized? Come hear Ken Ham, Pastor Doug Wilson, Dr. Ben Merkle, Dr. Gordon Wilson, me and more, and of course a live CrossPolitic show! Mark your calendars for October 11th-14th, as we fight, laugh, and feast, with beer & psalms, our amazing lineup of speakers, our Rowdy Christian Merch, and a Sabbath Feast to wrap up the occasion. Maybe an infant baptism while we’re at it! Visit fightlaughfeast.com for more information! Now ladies and gentleman… I have some audio for you to listen to. Listen to this exchange between Elon Musk, and a BBC reporter. A warning… Elon slaughters this “journalist”. Seeing as this is audio, just know I use air quotes when I say journalist. 'You Just Lied': Elon Musk Slaughters BBC Reporter In Live Interview-Play Video That ladies and gentleman, is the state of journalism these days. Now, let’s get to the news: https://www.foxnews.com/politics/farmers-score-victory-biden-admin-judge-pauses-controversial-eco-rules Farmers score victory over Biden admin as judge pauses controversial eco rules A federal judge granted a request Wednesday from a coalition of 24 states and several industry groups to block environmental regulations redefining how water sources are protected. Judge Daniel Hovland of the U.S. District Court for the District of North Dakota ruled that the so-called Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule announced by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in late December poses "great" risks to states. The judge also ruled that the federal government should wait until the Supreme Court soon rules on a related case pending before it. On Dec. 30, the final working day of 2022, the EPA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers quietly announced they had approved the WOTUS regulation and that it would be implemented in March. After announcing it, EPA Administrator Michael Regan said the rule "safeguards our nation’s waters." The rule ultimately opens the door for the federal government to regulate wetlands, lakes, ponds, streams and "relatively permanent" waterways, largely mimicking a pre-2015 environmental rule set during the Obama administration which implemented the changes in an effort to curb water pollution. The regulation is a broad interpretation of which water sources require protection under the Clean Water Act. However, in its lawsuit filed in February, the 24-state coalition — led by West Virginia, Georgia, Iowa and North Dakota — argued the regulations were an example of federal overreach and an attack on their sovereign authority regulating bodies of water and surrounding land. A series of industry groups — including the American Farm Bureau Federation, American Petroleum Institute, National Association of Realtors, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, National Corn Growers Association and National Mining Association — also entered the lawsuit as intervenor-plaintiffs. Meanwhile, the Senate and House both passed a bipartisan resolution earlier this year overturning the WOTUS regulation. President Biden vetoed the bill on April 6. https://www.theepochtimes.com/biden-admin-unveils-rule-to-force-67-percent-of-cars-sold-to-be-electric-by-2032_5189758.html?utm_source=partner&utm_campaign=BonginoReport US Unveils Toughest-Ever Car Emissions Rule in Bid to Force Surge in EV Purchases President Joe Biden further accelerated the nation’s switch to electric vehicles by announcing two proposed federal rule changes aimed at reducing greenhouse gases and other pollutants in motor vehicle emissions. The changes, announced on April 12, would affect virtually all gasoline-powered vehicles on U.S. highways, save consumers an estimated $12,000 in fuel and maintenance costs over the life of a vehicle, and avoid almost 10 billion tons of carbon dioxide emissions through 2055, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The move aims to further the president’s goal of having 50 percent of all new cars and light trucks and 30 percent of new medium- and heavy-duty trucks sold in 2030 be zero-emission vehicles. Electric vehicles (EVs) are considered zero-emission vehicles. The EPA estimates that approval of these rules would result in 67 percent of new passenger vehicles and light trucks being EVs by 2032, along with 50 percent of buses, 35 percent of short-haul freight tractors, and 25 percent of long-haul freight tractors. Critics have claimed that the move, which will increase the price of new cars, was made without consideration of the ability of the nation’s supply chain to meet the demand. The Biden administration has spent roughly $31 billion on the development of so-called clean transportation over the past two years, including the development of a network of EV charging stations, improving the supply chain for materials needed to produce EV batteries, and making loans to companies that manufacture EVs and EV components in the United States. General Motors, Ford, and Stellantis—the maker of Chrysler, Fiat, Ram, and Jeep brands—stated in 2021 that they would aim to reach EV sales of at least 40 percent of all their new vehicle sales by 2030. The rule change comes 10 months after six major automakers pledged to stop selling gas and diesel-powered cars worldwide by 2040. Speaking of hemoraging money… https://thepoliticalinsider.com/federal-government-borrowing-astronomical-6-billion-per-day/ Federal Government Borrowing Astronomical $6 Billion Per Day The U.S. Congressional Budget Office said Monday the federal government has accumulated more than a trillion dollars in debt only six months into the fiscal year. The Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget released a report pointing out that those figures amount to an average of $6 billion per day so far in fiscal year 2023. The data figures come as Republicans and Democrats approach a deadline to raise the debt ceiling or face defaulting on the national debt, an unprecedented event that would have huge ramifications for the U.S. and global economy. Republicans have pointed to those figures as proof of the need for spending cuts. President Joe Biden, though, has shown no interest in negotiating. Democrats argue the fiscal deadline is too risky to play with in negotiations. The CRFB said if nothing changes, the annual deficit will hit $3 trillion by the end of this decade. Down to Florida we go… https://www.dailyfetched.com/florida-lawmakers-prepare-to-pass-measure-to-permit-death-penalty-for-pedophiles/ Florida Lawmakers Prepare to Pass Measure to Permit DEATH PENALTY for Pedophiles The House will consider its version of the bill (HB 1297) after (SB 1342) was cleared on Tuesday by the Rules Committee, as it readies for the bill to be presented to the full Senate. For decades, the U.S. Supreme Court and Florida Supreme Court rulings have prohibited the execution of child rapists and sexual abuse cases. The last time someone was executed for a non-murder offense in the U.S. was 1964, according to a Senate staff analysis. However, the House and Senate bills argue that a Florida Supreme Court case in1981 and a U.S. Supreme Court case in 2008 were both “wrongly decided.” The Senate version declared the cases represent an “egregious infringement of the state’s power to punish the most heinous of crimes.” The bill’s sponsor, former prosecutor turned Republican state senator Jonathan Martin, said the legislation would allow for “constitutional boundaries by providing a sentencing procedure for those heinous crimes.” “If an individual rapes an 11-year-old, a 10-year-old, a 2-year-old or a 5-year-old, they should be subject to the death penalty,” Martin said Tuesday. As Red State reports: The legislation inevitably has drawn criticism, with Aaron Wyat of the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers pointing out that although people want “vengeance” against pedophiles, the death penalty would represent an overturning of decades of legal precedent. “This bill invites a longer, costlier (legal) process for the victim and their family that they will endure,” Wayt said. “While this crime, anyone convicted of it is vile, heinous, the Constitution itself, the case law, the Supreme Court demands a maximum of life in prison. And so while it’s not the vengeance we all want, it’s the justice that the Constitution demands,” Wayt added. Meanwhile, left-leaning Slate Magazine argued a “sentence of life without parole is a harsh and severe punishment,” even for pedophiles. Despite the media pushback, the bill has attracted support from some Democrats, including Senate Minority Leader Lauren Book, who suffered sexual abuse as a child and founded the advocacy organization Lauren’s Kids. Gov. Ron DeSantis is expected to sign off on this legislation after voicing support for the death penalty for pedophiles. https://www.foxnews.com/politics/trump-sues-michael-cohen-for-500-million Trump sues former attorney Michael Cohen for $500 million Former President Donald Trump is suing his ex-lawyer Michael Cohen for more than $500 million, alleging a breach of his attorney-client relationship, unjust enrichment, and more, Fox News Digital has learned. Trump’s legal team filed the more-than 30-page federal lawsuit in U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida on Wednesday. The lawsuit alleges Cohen breached his attorney-client relationship by "spreading falsehoods" about Trump that were "likely to be embarrassing or detrimental, and partook in other misconduct," while also breaching contractual terms of a confidentiality agreement he signed as a condition of employment with Trump. The lawsuit alleges Cohen spread falsehoods about Trump "with malicious intent and to wholly self-serving ends." The lawsuit details Cohen’s "myriad of public statements, including the publication of two books, a podcast series, and innumerable mainstream media appearances," while ignoring "cease and desist" orders. It claims Cohen has, in recent months, "increased the frequency and hostility of the illicit acts" and "appears to have become emboldened and repeatedly continues to make wrongful and false statements" about Trump through various platforms. The lawsuit comes a week after the former president pleaded not guilty in Manhattan court to 34 felony counts of falsifying business records in New York, related to alleged hush money payments made ahead of the 2016 presidential election. https://www.breitbart.com/sports/2023/04/11/nc-state-senator-moves-to-ban-participation-trophies/ NC State Senator Moves to Ban Participation Trophies Coffee is for closers, and if a state senator in North Carolina has his way, trophies at state-sponsored events will be for winners and winners only. North Carolina State Senator Timothy Moffitt (R) introduced the “Eliminate Participation Trophies Act” on Thursday, known in the legislature as SB 430. If passed, the bill would ban the awarding of trophies to children at state-sponsored athletic events simply for participating in the event. “Youth sports or other youth recreation activities operated under the authority of a local government shall not include awards for participants based solely on their participation in the sport or other activity,” the proposed law states. “Awards provided in connection with the activity, if any, shall be based on identified performance achievements.” Moffitt and the bill’s co-sponsors, Republican Senators Bobby Hanig and Eddie Settle say the bill will apply only to state-sponsored youth events. Though, no ages are listed explicitly in the bill. Many argue that participation trophies aren’t that big of a deal. After all, awarding trophies for merely showing up tends to fade out once kids progress past pee-wees and enter the junior high ranks. However, proponents of laws such as Moffitt’s will point to things like the Colts’ 2014 AFC Finalist Banner: Clearly, the participation trophy culture has made its way past pee-wees. Is it worth passing a law? The North Carolina legislature will soon decide.

A concerning shortage of Adderall, one of the drugs commonly used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), is putting patients at risk. What caused it, and how can we fix it? The EPA has set new guidelines to keep PFAS out of drinking water. There's a problem, however: the agency's standards are absurd. Join host Cameron English as he sits down with Dr. Chuck Dinerstein to break down these stories on Episode 40 of the Science Dispatch podcast: ACSH Asks Where's the Adderall? The shortage of Adderall, an important medication used to treat ADHD – attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder – is a story of supply, demand, the invisible hand of market forces. It's also about a bureaucracy focused on regulation rather than outcome. It has all the hallmarks of the opioid crisis. We have learned nothing. EPA Scientifically-Challenged PFAS Numbers With much fanfare, the EPA announced the proposed drinking water regulations for two “forever chemicals,” PFOA and PFOS. EPA Administrator Michael Regan said, “Communities across the country have suffered far too long from the ever-present threat of PFAS pollution. That is why President Biden launched a whole-of-government approach to aggressively confront these harmful chemicals, and EPA is leading the way forward.”

On Wednesday, the Environmental Protection Agency proposed strengthening a successful yet contentious Obama-era rule limiting toxic pollutants, like mercury, from coal-fired power plants. POLITICO's Alex Guillén breaks down the details of the updated rule, the potential impact on the nation's already shrinking fleet of coal plants, and how the rule fits into the Biden administration's broader climate agenda. Plus, an appeals court dismissed a lawsuit from Louisiana and other Republican-controlled states challenging the Biden administration's social cost of carbon.   Alex Guillén is an energy reporter for POLITICO Pro.  Josh Siegel is an energy reporter for POLITICO.  Nirmal Mulaikal is a POLITICO audio host-producer. Raghu Manavalan is a senior editor for POLITICO audio. Jenny Ament is the executive producer of POLITICO's audio department.

EPA Administrator Michael Regan was on Capitol Hill today fielding questions on the Waters of the U.S. rule. Hear the latest on that and a USDA action on school meals in today's DriveTime.

EPA Administrator Michael Regan was on Capitol Hill today fielding questions on the Waters of the U.S. rule. Hear the latest on that and a USDA action on school meals in today's DriveTime.

On Wednesday, EPA issued a new sweeping plan to curb pollution from power plants and manufacturing facilities across 23 states. The measure is the latest in a series of EPA regulations aimed at cutting down pollution and toxic waste from coal-fired power plants, and it's likely to further shrink the nation's fleet of coal-fired power generation. However, the regulation might face resistance from industry because of cost compliance and grid concerns. POLITICO's Alex Guillén breaks down EPA's latest rule and the pushback. Plus, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer slammed the House GOP's energy agenda, calling it “as bad and partisan as it gets.”   Josh Siegel is an energy reporter for POLITICO.  Alex Guillén is an energy reporter for POLITICO Pro.  Nirmal Mulaikal is a POLITICO audio host-producer. Raghu Manavalan is a senior editor for POLITICO audio. Jenny Ament is the executive producer of POLITICO's audio department.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has proposed drinking water regulations for several types of PFAS, the so-called forever chemicals that are pervasive in society and the environment and pose a risk to human health. The announcement was made at an event in Wilmington, North Carolina and this episode features the remarks by EPA Administrator Michael Regan and commentary by waterloop host Travis Loop. The episode also includes reactions from Secretary Elizabeth Biser of the N.C. Department of Environmental Quality, La'Meshia Whittington of The Green Majority, and Emily Donovan of Clean Cape Fear. waterloop is a nonprofit media outlet. Visit waterloop.org

Community groups in North Carolina are suing EPA Administrator Michael Regan for failing to require sufficient testing of PFAS chemicals contaminating water, air, and blood. The lawsuit poses a significant test for Regan, who grew up in North Carolina and has promised to hold polluters accountable in marginalized communities. Annie Snider breaks down the lawsuit, EPA's response, and what this means for Regan's environmental justice promises. Plus, an EPA watchdog slammed the agency's wood heater program in a new report.   Josh Siegel is an energy reporter for POLITICO.  Annie Snider covers water issues for POLITICO Pro.  Nirmal Mulaikal is a POLITICO audio host-producer. Raghu Manavalan is a senior editor for POLITICO audio. Jenny Ament is the executive producer of POLITICO's audio department.

The Environmental Protection Agency says tests have not shown any contamination of air or drinking water linked to the train derailment near East Palestine, Ohio.But residents in the area still have safety concerns.NPR's Ari Shapiro asks EPA Administrator Michael Regan about those concerns and about the agency's response to the disaster.In participating regions, you'll also hear a local news segment to help you make sense of what's going on in your community.Email us at considerthis@npr.org.

We will all see rain across our region today, but the fear is there could be some freezing rain with it, especially this morning in southwest Michigan. Temperatures will hold in the low 30s all day. Please stay weather aware today, and give yourself some extra time to get wherever you need to go this morning. This is all part of a storm system bringing snow and rain across the upper midwest and northeast this week. In Minnesota, Minneapolis schools have already moved to e-learning for the rest of the week. Major airlines are saying they'll waive additional fees for travelers who need to rebook because of the weather. Ohio Governor Mike DeWine says the water in East Palestine is safe to drink, following that recent train derailment. He and EPA Administrator Michael Regan visited a resident's home and drink water from her tap to demonstrate their confidence. DeWine and the governor of Pennsylvania have also made a "criminal referral" against Norfolk Southern Railroad for the spill. President Biden and Russian President Vladimir Putin traded barbs in separate speeches yesterday. In Poland, Biden said Russia will never subdue Ukraine, while in Moscow, Putin called the war a western effort to take over Russia. College basketball: 17th ranked Indiana went out to an early lead, but an emotional Michigan State team and crowd dominated after that in an 80-to-65 Spartans win in East Lansing. Notre Dame hosts North Carolina tonight at Purcell Pavilion, a late 9:00pm tipoff on Sports Radio 960 AM WSBT. In hockey, the Blackhawks and Las Vegas Knights went to a shootout in Chicago, the Blackhawks winning 3-to-2. The Detroit Redwings won at Washington, 3-to-1.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On Tuesday, the Biden administration unveiled details of the new Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund, which will distribute $27 billion dollars in grants to meet the needs of low-income and minority communities that often face the worst effects of pollution. POLITICO's Zack Colman breaks down the fund's details and how it targets a Biden campaign promise. Plus, EU officials met with executives from US and European LNG companies to help European member countries meet their natural gas needs.   Josh Siegel is an energy reporter for POLITICO.  Zack Colman covers climate change for POLITICO.  Nirmal Mulaikal is a POLITICO audio host-producer. Raghu Manavalan is a senior editor for POLITICO audio. Jenny Ament is the executive producer of POLITICO's audio department.

In 2020, then President-elect Joe Biden made history when he nominated North Carolina's Michael Regan as the first Black man in the spot of EPA Administrator. Recently, Tim spent time with Regan in Washington, D.C., and in his hometown of Goldsboro, North Carolina. It was there where Tim discovered Regan's years on a family farm had a major impact on his views and motivations in terms of the environment and climate change. His hometown also played a big role in his focus on environmental justice. Later, Regan talks to Tim about what it's like to work for a president, and if he would ever run for office himself.

Bill filing has begun at the North Carolina General Assembly. Plus: Rumors emerge that EPA Administrator Michael Regan might leave the Biden Administration, but North Carolina sources say he won't be running for governor in 2024 — a prospect that once had some Democrats buzzing.

The need to center environmental justice in the federal government's work has never been more urgent.   On this month's episode of my podcast, I spoke with Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan about the importance of environmental justice and prioritizing equity over equality.

Environmental Protection Agency employees, implementing major climate and green government legislation championed by the Biden administration, are calling for higher wages and more opportunities for promotions. More than 600 EPA employees represented by the American Federation of Government Employees are calling on the agency to extend career ladder pay scales and merit promotions for lawyers, inspectors and engineers. Their Dec. 8 letter to EPA Administrator Michael Regan states federal pay for STEM positions is far outpaced by the private sector, and that prospective hires are declining about 25% of EPA's job offers.

Many environmental advocates acknowledged Thursday that the Supreme Court's decision in the Environmental Protection Agency's case is a significant blow in the government's efforts to limit greenhouse gases in the short term. West Virginia won the case after a legal battle over the clean power plan. EPA Administrator Michael Regan joins Judy Woodruff to discuss. PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

Many environmental advocates acknowledged Thursday that the Supreme Court's decision in the Environmental Protection Agency's case is a significant blow in the government's efforts to limit greenhouse gases in the short term. West Virginia won the case after a legal battle over the clean power plan. EPA Administrator Michael Regan joins Judy Woodruff to discuss. PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

Many environmental advocates acknowledged Thursday that the Supreme Court's decision in the Environmental Protection Agency's case is a significant blow in the government's efforts to limit greenhouse gases in the short term. West Virginia won the case after a legal battle over the clean power plan. EPA Administrator Michael Regan joins Judy Woodruff to discuss. PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

Many environmental advocates acknowledged Thursday that the Supreme Court's decision in the Environmental Protection Agency's case is a significant blow in the government's efforts to limit greenhouse gases in the short term. West Virginia won the case after a legal battle over the clean power plan. EPA Administrator Michael Regan joins Judy Woodruff to discuss. PBS NewsHour is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

In today's DriveTime, EPA Administrator Michael Regan discusses WOTUS, the FAO released the latest Food Price Index, and producers can expect to see more disaster funding. 

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack wants to strengthen federal disaster programs. EPA Administrator Michael Regan defends the Biden Administration's rewrite of Waters of the U.S. rules. It may be time to give your bull a check up. May is National Beef Month. Hay season is getting underway in East Texas. We'll have those stories and more on this episode of Texas Ag Today.

A key priority for the American Farm Bureau Federation is the WOTUS rewrite. This stands for Waters of the United States. It's a regulation that's been back and forth over the past few decades. Courtney Briggs leads government affairs with Farm Bureau. She breaks down the status of WOTUS for Mid-West Farm Report. EPA is hosting regional roundtables primarily in the month of June. Briggs says this is a chance for farmers and ranchers to share their perspectives. EPA Administrator Michael Regan says the agency does want to stop the ping-ponging that's been taking place over the past 12 years. He says EPA wants to provide more certainty with the rule this administration is writing. EPA is going back to the pre-2015 rule and making changes to satisfy the Supreme Court rulings that the Obama-era WOTUS was an overreach. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Biden administration is approaching a key deadline to publish annual volume targets for biofuel blending. There's also the ongoing effort to redefine the definition of a Water of the U.S. and looming concerns about the loss of crop protection tools through the Environmental Protection Agency's approval processes. EPA Administrator Michael Regan joins Newsmakers to discuss the work the agency is doing on the long list of food and ag policy concerns at the agency. There's also thoughts from industry leaders like Chris Bliley at Growth Energy, Michael Formica at the National Pork Producers Council, and Richard Gupton at the Agricultural Retailers Association about what the EPA is doing – as well as what they'd like the agency to do instead. Want to receive Newsmakers in your inbox every week? Sign up! http://eepurl.com/hTgSAD

Ken Eriksen is senior vice president at Agribusiness by IHS Markit and the perfect guest with whom to discuss the issues concerning the supply chain and rail transportation, especially as it concerns agriculture. Brett Crosby is the director at the U.S. Cattlemen's Association and he joins us to discuss the Cattle Price Discovery and Transparency Act, which is being reviewed at a Senate Ag Committee hearing, plus the need for oversight on meat packers. And we welcome EPA Administrator Michael Regan to AgriTalk and we discuss his tour of rural America touting the Biden administration's infrastructure program, plus status of WOTUS, RVOs, SREs, and Food vs. Fuel. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

EPA Administrator Michael Regan offered his thoughts on E15 Wednesday. More on that and a look at a House Ag Subcommittee's hearing on export policy and food being on display at a well-known conference in today's DriveTime.

On Wednesday, the Environmental Protection Agency restored California's authority to implement its own greenhouse gas emission standards. POLITICO's Alex Guillén explains how this move could impact automobile makers, blue states and the White House's clean energy and climate goals.   Kelsey Tamborrino is a reporter covering clean energy and is the host of the POLITICO Energy podcast.  Alex Guillén is an energy reporter for POLITICO Pro.  Nirmal Mulaikal is a POLITICO audio host-producer.  Carlos Prieto is an audio producer for POLITICO.  Raghu Manavalan is a senior editor for POLITICO audio. Jenny Ament is the executive producer of POLITICO's audio department.

EPA's Clean Air Scientific Advisory Committee released a draft review Friday that recommended Administrator Michael Regan tighten standards on fine particulate matter. POLITICO's Alex Guillén breaks down that recommendation, along with the health, environmental and financial implications.   Nirmal Mulaikal is a POLITICO audio host-producer.  Alex Guillén is an energy reporter for POLITICO Pro.  Carlos Prieto is an audio producer for POLITICO.  Raghu Manavalan is a senior editor for POLITICO audio. Jenny Ament is the interim executive producer of POLITICO's audio department.

NCBA's Environmental Counsel, Mary-Thomas Hart, joins the podcast to discuss the report recently released by the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Farm, Ranch, and Rural Communities Advisory Committee (FRRCC). In their report FRRCC provided recommendations that directly align with NCBA's policy stances on several topics under EPA jurisdiction, including Waters of the United States (WOTUS). Hart also reminds cattle producers that that their voice is the most powerful as we work with decisionmakers at EPA to achieve clear and consistent WOTUS rules. Visit ncba.org/policy to sign a letter to EPA Administrator Michael Regan, and let your voice be heard!

Last week, the Biden administration released its energy and conservation priorities for next year under its Unified Agenda. POLITICO'S Alex Guillén explains what the EPA plans for climate regulations in 2022.   Annie Snider covers water issues for POLITICO Pro and is the host of POLITICO Energy.  Alex Guillén is an energy reporter for POLITICO Pro.  Nirmal Mulaikal is a POLITICO audio host-producer.  Raghu Manavalan is a senior editor for POLITICO audio. Jenny Ament is the interim executive producer of POLITICO's audio department.

Growing up in eastern North Carolina and attending North Carolina A&T State University, EPA Administrator Michael Regan is no stranger to the disproportionate effects of air pollution in Black, Brown, and Indigenous communities. After graduating from A&T, he landed an internship at the EPA, and as a full-circle moment, he was sworn in as the 16th Administrator March 11, 2021. Administrator Regan sits down with Rev Yearwood to discuss the EPA's plans for environmental justice and how his personal and professional life experiences prepared him for this moment to transform the Agency and work to protect communities of color. He aims to ensure that the EPA's work is done through a justice and equity lens. The Coolest Show – brought to you by Hip Hop Caucus Think 100% PODCASTS – drops new episodes every Monday on environmental justice and how we solve the climate crisis. Listen and subscribe here or at TheCoolestShow.com! Follow @Think100Climate and @RevYearwood on Instagram, Twitter, and Instagram.

Today's episode is with Michael Regan, the Administrator of the EPA. Earlier this year, after working with North Carolina's Department of Environmental Quality and the Environmental Defense Fund, Regan was sworn in as Administrator, becoming the first black man to hold the position. Under President Biden, Regan and his team have placed environmental justice at the forefront of all of their initiatives—from cleaning legacy pollutants to rezoning urban development. We talk about the EPA's role in the current administration, how individuals can participate in policy making, and greening the economy. Reminder that we plant a tree for every subscriber, so go ahead and hit that button! Executive Produced by Sustainable Partners, Inc. Edited/Produced by Shelby Kaufman Associate Produced and Engineered by Sophie Ewh Music by Ryan and Jack Met of AJR All Rights Reserved, Sustainable Partners, Inc.

Today's DriveTime features a WOTUS update from EPA Administrator Michael Regan, a government spending note from Senate Ag Ranking Member John Boozman, R-Ark., and a regulatory state of play from Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack.

Avi Garbow joins us this week on The Lookfar Podcast: Voices from the Wild. Avi serves as the environmental advocate for Patagonia, Inc., whose corporate ethos and activism center on protecting the climate and conserving public lands while building ambitious environmental standards into its supply chains and customer outreach. Before joining Patagonia, Avi served in the Obama Administration, as General Counsel at the Environmental Protection Agency. More recently, Avi took a temporary leave from his post at Patagonia to serve as an advisor to the Biden Administration and EPA Administrator Michael Regan. Avi talks with Scott about the differences between the public and the private sector when seeking to advance the frontiers of environmental protection, delving into law, policy, politics, and corporate citizenship and sustainability. Available on all major podcast platforms. Just search “Lookfar” and you'll find it!

After the first January 6th Select Committee hearing, Joe Madison interviews Chairman Bennie Thompson about the investigation and where it could go next. Joe also discusses the future of the bipartisan infrastructure bill with Michael Regan, the first Black Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency. 

On June 9, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Department of the Army announced their intent to revise the definition of “waters of the United States”. North American Ag's Chrissy Wozniak had the pleasure of speaking with an expert on the matter - the Senior Director of the American Farm Bureau Federation, from Fairfax Station, Virginia - Don Parrish.The Navigable Water NWPR replaced EPA's controversial Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule. Under the Obama-era rule, EPA could have extended its authority beyond navigable waters to include “waters” as small as wet-weather ditches and springs. EPA Administrator Michael Regan said the agency determined the current rule is leading to “significant environmental degradation.” NWPR will remain the law of the land while EPA drafts a new rule. “Clean water and clarity are paramount, and that is why farmers shouldn't need a team of lawyers and consultants to farm.” says Farm Bureau President Zippy Duval. Don Parrish gives his thoughts and analysis on the issue. Read more on the American Farm Bureau's site - https://www.fb.org/newsroom/water-rule-reversal-a-blow-to-agricultureThe Women in Agribusiness (WIA) Summit annually convenes over 800 of the country's female agribusiness decision-makers. The 2022 WIA Summit, September 26-28 in Dallas, TX includes presentations from Cargill's Corporate Senior Vice President, Animal Health & Nutrition, Ruth Kimmelshue; Marco Orioli, VP of Global Grain & Processing for EMEA, CHS; and Brooke Appleton of the NCGA. Learn more at https://agr.fyi/wia_register. FIRA USA 18-20 OCT. 2022 (FRESNO-CA): The only 3-day event dedicated to the California and North America market for autonomous agriculture and agricultural robotics solutions.Learn More at https://agr.fyi/fira

Scott Hennen LIVE from Bismarck State College 02:32 - Headlines - Greg Neft - News Director 09:40 - EPA Administrator Michael Regan's visit to ND - Doug Burgum - Governor of North Dakota What's on your mind? We want to know! Call and tell us at 1-800-228-0550. Missed a show? Find it HERE.

Scott Hennen LIVE from Bismarck State College 00:40 - Senator John Hoeven 23:18 - LIVE coverage of EPA Administrator Michael Regan's visit to ND What's on your mind? We want to know! Call and tell us at 1-800-228-0550. Missed a show? Find it HERE.

Scott Hennen LIVE from Bismarck State College 01:22 - LIVE coverage of EPA Administrator Michael Regan's visit to ND What's on your mind? We want to know! Call and tell us at 1-800-228-0550. Missed a show? Find it HERE.

The Crude Life Morning Show: Play Hard Work Hard Episode 103 Hour One Play Hard: Jason Spiess and Sterling talk about oil news in Alaska, Bakken BBQ, Shale Energy Resources Trade Show, EPA Administrator Michael Regan, Real Oilfield Women and how government programs can use kids to compete with the private [...]

National Corn Growers Association CEO Jon Doggett joins us to share his impressions of EPA Administrator Michael Regan and the role products like ethanol can play in providing solutions going forward. Plus Greg Peterson – Machinery Pete – has his Pick of the Week and talks about recent and upcoming auctions. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This afternoon we chat with Jamey Kohake of Paragon Investments provides a wealth of perspective on the craziness of the markets plus Dave Walton of the Iowa Soybean Association and Iowa Biodiesel Board talks about his impressions of EPA Administrator Michael Regan after hearing him speak in Iowa. Todd Horwitz of bubbatrading.com has price action. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

EPA Administrator Michael Regan visits with Iowa farmers and biofuel producers and corn planting progress makes strides. That and more on today's DriveTime.

Friday on Adams on Agriculture NACD’s Coleman Garrison discusses plans to attract more acres into conservation programs, USB Chair Dan Farney explains a new soy based product to suppress dust, Total Farm Marketing’s Naomi Blohm gives her market outlook and AFBF’s Don Parrish reacts to comments by EPA Administrator Michael Regan on WOTUS.

When Congressman Dusty Johnson meets with U.S. EPA Administrator Michael Regan to talk about ethanol, the South Dakota Farmers Union and ethanol producer Glacial Lakes Energy are urging him to include high octane fuels on the agenda.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the Biden administration gets it appointees in place, EPA Administrator Michael Regan has been doing what he calls a full reset of the agency’s Science Advisory Board and Clean Air Scientific Advisory Committee. That means firing all 49 members, some of whom still had years left in their terms. For what this all means, Federal News Network’s Jory Heckman spoke with the former director of the board’s staff office, Chris Zarba.