In rural America, energy isn’t just about turning on the lights — it’s the heartbeat of communities, the backbone of local economies and the foundation that schools, farms and businesses rely on every single day.
That’s especially true in Wyoming, where coal has powered homes, fueled industry and supported good-paying jobs for generations.
Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) took another step forward to empower local governance and restore common-sense regulatory balance by proposing to approve Wyoming’s state permitting program for Coal Combustion Residuals (CCR).
Today's announcement is a big win for two key aspects of Powering the Great American Comeback — Restoring American Energy Dominance and Permitting Reform, Cooperative Federalism, and Cross-Agency Partnership.
By approving Wyoming's coal combustion residuals program, we're proving that environmental protection and unleashing American energy go hand in hand.
This partnership puts decision-making power where it should be, with Wyoming experts who know their local businesses and communities best.
We're supporting American energy in the right way while removing unnecessary federal barriers.
This gives companies the clear rules they need to invest, create new ideas, and build good- paying jobs.
This is exactly how states and EPA should work together, protecting our environment while making America stronger and more energy independent.
CCR is produced primarily as a byproduct from burning coal in coal-fired power plants.
These residuals contain hazardous contaminants like mercury, cadmium and arsenic, which pose risks to groundwater, drinking water and air quality if not managed properly.
Wyoming understands that the management of CCR is crucial to ensuring clean air, land and water for every American.
Wyoming has been America’s leader in coal production since 1986. When coal is strong, Wyoming is strong.
By putting regulatory authority in Wyoming's hands, we can cut through unnecessary red tape, allowing local voices to guide the future of energy and environmental protection in the state.
President Trump and our agency have made clear that our mission is not to dictate one- size-fits-all mandates, but instead to empower states and communities to lead on their own.
Wyoming knows its land and its people best. Every CCR site is different, with complex, site-specific issues. That’s why decisions about how to manage them belong with local regulators.
EPA carefully reviewed Wyoming’s application and determined that it meets the high standards required for approval. Wyoming is positioned to take the lead, with EPA continuing to serve as a partner.
To support this effort, EPA has provided technical assistance to Wyoming, ensuring the state has the tools and resources to build and implement a strong CCR program.
This collaboration shows what happens when federal and state governments work together: the environment is protected, local expertise is respected, and rural economies continue to grow.
By approving Wyoming’s program, EPA is delivering the stability and clarity that industries, workers and families deserve.
The rules of the road will be consistent, streamlined and tailored to the realities on the ground. That makes it easier for utilities to plan, for regulators to enforce and for communities to trust that the environment and public health are being protected.
The Trump EPA is working hard to Power the Great American Comeback, and that means making sure our regulations don’t overburden states.
Good governance comes from trust, collaboration and respect for local expertise. It’s the foundation of Powering America’s comeback story.
Together, we are paving the way for a future where states are empowered, industries flourish, and the environment is safeguarded for generations to come.
By Lee Zeldin, EPA Administrator and Cyrus Western, EPA Region 8 Administrator
