Red Tape or Roadblock? How EPA Regulations Affect Wyoming’s Economy

The EPA has been shaking things up lately with their latest set of reforms. Marty Durbin, Senior Vice President at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, issued the following statement today regarding the Environmental Protection Agency’s announcements to reshape major Biden Administration regulations, including Waters of the United States (WOTUS), Clean Power Plan, and air quality and vehicle standards.

“American businesses were crippled with an unprecedented regulatory onslaught during the previous administration that contributed to higher costs felt by families around the country. The Chamber supports a more balanced regulatory approach that will protect the environment and support greater economic growth. We provided constructive feedback to the previous administration about business concerns with rules like Waters of the United States, Clean Power Plan, air quality standards, risk management, and the social cost of carbon, as well as efforts to cooperatively work with states on compliance plans, among other areas of concern. We have been working with the Trump Administration to help bring commonsense reforms to the agency’s regulations that will provide certainty to businesses and reduce regulatory costs and will continue to do so.”

WY it Matters: The EPA’s regulations aren’t just red tape—they have real consequences for businesses. Increased regulations on water, power, air quality, and vehicle standards mean higher costs, more compliance burdens, and less flexibility to grow and innovate. When businesses are hit with excessive regulation, prices rise, supply chains slow down, and economic growth takes a hit.

A balanced regulatory approach is essential for a thriving economy. Your Chamber is fighting for policies that protect both the environment and business interests, ensuring that businesses in Wyoming and across the country can operate with certainty, keep costs manageable, and continue to drive economic growth. This isn’t just about policy—it’s about protecting jobs, investment, and the future of free enterprise.