New Support in Fight Against ECA Regulation

News Release from Alaska Governor Sean Parnell

October 19, 2012, Juneau, Alaska - Governor Sean Parnell today welcomed the support of the Resource Development Council (RDC) after it moved to intervene in litigation against the federal government and its new emission rules imposing a 200-mile emissions control area (ECA) off most of Alaska’s coast.

“The State of Alaska, our congressional delegation, and Alaska’s businesses repeatedly told the federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), years ago when they were considering the new rules, that they did not have the facts or the science to support imposing the ECA on Alaska,” Governor Parnell said. “Incredibly, but not surprisingly, the EPA admitted a lack of science and modeling but chose to force the new regulation on Alaska. I am proud to stand with the Alaska businesses, individuals, Alaska Native corporations, and communities that make up the membership of the RDC in this fight.”

While some vessels in the maritime fleet could make costly adjustments to comply with the ECA, those costs will be passed on, increasing the price of goods and fuel in Alaska. The state is requesting the EPA to withdraw the ECA, perform the proper studies, consider and balance the impacts and costs to Alaska jobs and families, allow all Alaskans to review accurate information and provide comment, and follow the proper procedures before imposing any new rules.

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Related: Alaska Resource Development Council