Trump Delays Tougher Air Pollution Rules for Copper Smelters by 2 Years
How this policy affects specific groups of people
President Trump signed a proclamation granting Freeport-McMoRan's Arizona copper smelter a two-year reprieve from Biden-era air toxics regulations. The administration argued the standards strained the domestic industry and risked closures that would increase reliance on foreign suppliers.
The exemption allows U.S. copper smelters to bypass stricter limits on lead, arsenic, and mercury for two years. The order specifically applies to Freeport-McMoRan's facility, while noting that Rio Tinto's Utah smelter already invested in equipment to capture such emissions.
Industry leaders applauded the 'Regulatory Relief for Certain Stationary Sources to Promote American Mineral Security' proclamation, stating it strengthens the copper supply chain and preserves processing capacity amid rising demand for domestic supply.
Document Type
Presidential Proclamation
Official Title
Regulatory Relief for Certain Stationary Sources To Promote American Chemical Manufacturing Security
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