Uncle Sam Loosens Smog Rules to Keep Copper Smelters Smelting Strong
Published Date: 11/2/2025
Presidential Document
Summary
This new rule helps America’s few remaining copper smelters by easing tough pollution controls that are hard to meet right now. It’s all about keeping copper production strong at home, so we don’t rely on other countries for this critical metal. The changes give smelters more time and flexibility, protecting jobs and boosting U.S. mineral security without sacrificing clean air goals.
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Two-Year Copper Rule Exemption
Certain stationary sources listed in Annex I are exempted from complying with the Copper Rule for 2 years beyond the Copper Rule's relevant compliance dates. During each such 2-year period, those listed sources must follow the emissions and compliance obligations that applied prior to the Copper Rule instead of the new Copper Rule requirements.
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