Idaho panel votes to reject federal program involving coal plants

Idaho panel votes to reject federal program involving coal plants

The Idaho Board of Environmental Quality has voted unanimously against having the state take part in a federal program that could encourage companies to build coal-fired power plants in the state.

Board members voted Thursday to send a temporary opt-out policy proposal to Governor Jim Risch.

By signing the proposal, Risch would include Idaho as one of the states declining to take part in the U-S Environmental Protection Agency’s Clean Air Mercury Rule.

The rule allows power plants to buy emissions reduction credits from plants whose emissions fall below target levels.

Coal plants emit mercury that can cause neurological damage and other health problems. (AP)

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