At a recent town hall in Pinedale, Wyoming, U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman expressed strong support for repealing the 2009 endangerment finding, which classified greenhouse gases as pollutants and mandated federal regulation of their emissions. Hageman dismissed the finding as based on “false science,” prompting significant backlash from constituents, many of whom have struggled with poor air quality linked to natural gas extraction in the area. Local residents have noted alarming ozone levels exacerbated by emissions from industry, leading to health concerns.
Despite Hageman’s stance, many community members, including activists who fought for healthier air, are opposed to rolling back regulations and cite years of successful efforts to improve air quality in the region. The ongoing debate reflects a broader tension in Wyoming, where the fossil fuel industry is vital yet climate change concerns are increasingly recognized by the public. Residents seek a balanced approach that supports safe drilling while also prioritizing environmental health. The potential repeal could face legal challenges and may not significantly change existing state emission standards.
