Plain Language Summary
# CLOSE Act Summary **What it does:** The CLOSE Act would tighten environmental regulations on oil and gas operations by making it easier for the EPA to regulate toxic air pollution from these facilities. Specifically, it would allow emissions from multiple oil and gas wells, pipelines, and compressor stations to be counted together when determining if a facility qualifies as a major pollution source. It also requires the EPA to officially classify hydrogen sulfide (a toxic gas produced during oil and gas extraction) as a hazardous air pollutant and establish new pollution standards for it. **Who it affects:** Oil and gas companies engaged in exploration, production, and pipeline operations would face stricter emissions regulations and monitoring. The changes could increase compliance costs for the industry and potentially affect workers in these sectors.
Environmental advocates argue the bill would benefit public health by reducing toxic air exposure for communities near drilling and pipeline operations. **Current status:** The bill was introduced by Rep. Yvette Clarke (D-NY) in the 119th Congress and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been voted on by the full House of Representatives. It would need to pass committee review, House approval, Senate approval, and presidential signature to become law.
CRS Official Summary
Closing Loopholes for Oil and other Sources of Emissions Act or the CLOSE Act This bill amends the Clean Air Act to revise requirements for hazardous air pollutants. Specifically, the bill allows (1) emissions from oil or gas exploration or production wells and emissions from pipeline compressors or pump stations to be aggregated with emissions from other similar sources and regulated as a major source of toxic air pollutants, (2) emissions from those wells to be aggregated for purposes of emissions standards for hazardous air pollutants, and (3) emissions from oil or gas production wells to be regulated as an area source of toxic air pollutants. The Environmental Protection Agency must (1) issue a final rule adding hydrogen sulfide to the list of hazardous air pollutants; and (2) revise the list of air pollution sources within 365 days after issuing the rule to include categories and subcategories of major sources and area sources of hydrogen sulfide, including oil and gas wells.
Latest Action
Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.