Matthew M. Morrison

2 months ago | jdsupra.com | Steve Brenner |Sidney Fowler |Matthew M. Morrison

EPA recently finalized the HFC Emissions Reduction and Reclamation Rule, which imposes strict requirements on industries relying on HFC-based refrigeration systems. Prior to the Biden administration leaving office, EPA finalized another rule in its continued push to phase down the use of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) by issuing a final rule on October 11, 2024, to establish the HFC Emissions Reduction and Reclamation (ER&R) program.

Jul 26, 2024 | jdsupra.com | Karen Eskander |Michael McDonough |Matthew M. Morrison

On May 20, 2024, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service published a final rule listing the dunes sagebrush lizard as endangered under the Endangered Species Act. TAKEAWAYS The listing does not include a designation of critical habitat. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service found the designation to be prudent but not determinable and has one year from the time of listing to propose critical habitat.

May 10, 2024 | jdsupra.com | Cara MacDonald |Matthew M. Morrison |Ashleigh Myers

TAKEAWAYS The rules address the listing process for critical species and habitat designations, as well as protections for threatened species. In a reversal, the rules also revise the ESA Section 7 interagency consultation process and open the door for mitigation requirements.

Apr 18, 2024 | jdsupra.com | Steve Brenner |David McCullough |Matthew M. Morrison

TAKEAWAYS Eight states are currently considering legislation that would require reductions in the carbon intensity of transportation fuel sold in the state, which would substantially increase the demand for renewable fuel and low-carbon fuel sold in the United States. These proposals could provide needed support for growth in the low-carbon fuels markets, which are currently facing headwinds.

Mar 14, 2024 | jdsupra.com | Cara MacDonald |Matthew M. Morrison |Ashleigh Myers

TAKEAWAYS Beginning April 12, 2024, USFWS will offer a general permit application for incidental take of bald and golden eagles for wind energy and power line projects. The general permit option will provide an alternative to project-specific permits, formerly known as Incidental Take Permits. Projects in areas with a high incidence of eagles will still be required to obtain a specific permit, but the vast majority will be eligible for the general permit.