The Center for Biological Diversity is suing the Trump administration for failing to release records identifying industrial polluters who requested exemptions from Clean Air Act protections. 

In March, the Trump administration invited fossil fuel companies and other industries to apply for exemptions from limits on hazardous pollutants like mercury and lead. Unlike prior administrations, the EPA accepted emailed requests with minimal documentation. Dozens of coal plants have already been granted exemptions. 

The Center filed a FOIA request in March seeking records on who applied and why. The EPA has not responded, despite legal deadlines requiring a response within 20 business days. 

The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona, aims to force disclosure of these records. Advocates warn that the exemptions could increase pollution in communities already burdened by environmental harm. 

The Environmental Defense Fund has estimated that more than 500 facilities may qualify for increased emissions under the Trump administration’s policy. 

Posted: July 1, 2025
Category: Brechner News
Tagged as: Brechner FOI Project, Brechner Freedom of Information Project, FOI, FOIA, open records laws, public records, Secrecy Tracker