The Environmental Protection Agency will develop and finalize multiple rules over the next several years that will dramatically impact the air, water, and energy regulatory climate. This unprecedented level of activity will be mirrored at the state level since each federal regulation will trigger the promulgation of state rules to implement the standards. Studies have shown these rules will have an impact on the overall economy, jobs, competitiveness, and energy costs.

Below is a brief summary of of the most recent action on the multitude of rules under promulgation as well as information on expected future actions.

Wisconsin Congressman Jim Sensenbrenner is leading a two front attack on the EPA’s registration of E15 fuel. Sensenbrenner has introduced legislation requiring more studies and higher standards and has also asked the EPA to delay any action on E15.

Today, November 17, 2011, The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Energy (DOE) formally unveiled their joint proposal to set stronger fuel economy and greenhouse gas pollution standards. This plan for strengthening  Corporate Average Fuel Economy standards, is known as CAFE, and is in effect for model years 2017-2025. The 2025 target is 54.5 miles per gallon (mpg), which is almost double the current standard.

Around 400 people attended an event on the UW campus featuring EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson on Tuesday, November 15th. Jackson mentioned the EPA “train wreck” and some of the rules that are a part of it, calling Congressional attempts to interfere with the EPA’s work “too dirty to fail.” Jackson’s full remarks are available here.