H.R.3870 - Combating Overregulation And Limitation of Proven, Operable, Working Energy Resources Act; COAL POWER Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 3870, also known as the COAL POWER Act, seeks to repeal an EPA rule concerning national emission standards for hazardous air pollutants from coal- and oil-fired electric utility steam generating units. The specific rule targeted is the "National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants: Coal- and Oil-Fired Electric Utility Steam Generating Units Review of the Residual Risk and Technology Review" (89 Fed. Reg. 38508 (May 7, 2024)).
The bill aims to eliminate this regulation, treating it as if it never took effect.
The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on June 10, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
Expected Effects
If enacted, H.R. 3870 would remove the EPA's regulatory requirements related to hazardous air pollutants from coal and oil-fired power plants. This could lead to increased emissions of these pollutants.
It could also potentially lower energy costs due to reduced compliance expenses for power plants. The long-term environmental and health consequences would depend on the extent to which power plants alter their emission control practices.
Potential Benefits 2/5
- Potential for reduced energy costs due to decreased regulatory burden on power plants.
- Could lead to increased domestic energy production from coal and oil.
- May prevent premature closure of some coal and oil-fired power plants, preserving jobs in those sectors.
- Could be seen as a move to reduce government overreach and regulatory burdens on businesses.
- Could lead to increased investment in coal and oil energy sectors.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Likely increase in hazardous air pollutant emissions, potentially harming public health.
- Could worsen air quality and contribute to environmental degradation.
- May hinder the transition to cleaner energy sources and climate change mitigation efforts.
- Potential for increased health costs associated with air pollution-related illnesses.
- Could negatively impact the nation's international standing on environmental issues.
Constitutional Alignment 4/5
The bill's constitutional alignment is primarily related to the balance of powers between Congress and the Executive branch (specifically, the EPA). Congress has the power to legislate and can repeal rules enacted by executive agencies.
Article I, Section 1 vests all legislative powers in Congress, which includes the power to pass laws that modify or repeal existing regulations. The bill does not appear to infringe on individual rights or liberties protected by the Constitution or its amendments.
However, the long-term effects on environmental quality and public health could raise questions about the government's responsibility to "promote the general Welfare," as stated in the Preamble.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to citizens. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).