The decision removes safeguards implemented in 2024 that strengthened mercury limits for lignite-burning plants, reduced other toxic metals like arsenic and lead, and improved emissions monitoring.

On Feb. 12, 2026, EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin announced  the department’s decision to rescind the Endangerment Finding,  a 2009 rule that enabled the EPA to regulate six key well-mixed greenhouse gases, including CO2 and methane, as air pollutants under the Clean Air Act. The EPA’s announcement says it is repealing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions regulations for all motor vehicles and engines from 2012 to 2027 and beyond. Given that the transportation sector accounts for one

In a press conference hosted by the Michigan Clinicians for Climate Action on Jan. 27, health professionals and advocates, along with Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib, condemned the EPA’s short-sighted actions that endanger the public’s health and wellbeing. 

“How can a healthy body be resilient in an unhealthy environment?” said Mary-Jacqueline Muli, the Climate Justice Nurse and a MiCCA board member, in one of several references to the public health threats of mold in flooded homes.

Rolling back the EPA’s ability to regulate planet-warming air pollutants at a time when extreme heat and humidity coupled with wildfire smoke has become a common summer-day occurrence in Michigan is unconscionable.