West Virginia's Chemistry Industry Welcomes Senators Rockefeller and Manchin's Efforts to Suspend U.S. EPA Rules That Threaten State's Economy, Jobs

CHARLESTON, W.Va., April 7, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- U.S. Senator Jay Rockefeller (D-W.Va.) introduced an amendment that would suspend U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) greenhouse gas (GHG) permitting regulations for stationary sources. Unfortunately, the Senate voted down the amendment late yesterday.

West Virginia Manufacturers Association President Karen Price issued the following statement:

"West Virginia's chemical industry welcomed Senator Rockefeller's amendment to suspend EPA's GHG permitting regulations, which jeopardize our companies' nearly 10,000 West Virginia jobs, along with thousands of others in downstream industries. The amendment was a positive step on this important issue and we were pleased that it garnered support from Senator Manchin.

"We look forward to working with Senators Rockefeller and Manchin to ensure that a solution is achieved within the next three months. Prompt action is critical, as Phase 2 of EPA's greenhouse gas regulations go into effect July 1, 2011, and will significantly affect stationary sources, including West Virginia's manufacturing plants.  

"We commend Senators Rockefeller and Manchin for demonstrating their commitment to West Virginia jobs in their efforts to pass legislation to fix this problem.  West Virginia manufacturers, farmers and small businesses are depending on Senators Rockefeller and Manchin and their colleagues to resolve this issue."

BACKGROUND: The West Virginia Manufacturers Association represents manufacturers across the state, including the chemistry industry. West Virginia chemical companies employ nearly 10,000 West Virginians and contribute $720 million in wages and salaries and more than $1 billion in federal and state tax revenue to the state's economy.

SOURCE West Virginia Manufacturers Association