Rep. John Shimkus’ domain in Washington, D.C., will now include “jurisdiction over the Clean Air Act.” | File photo
Rep. John Shimkus’ domain in Washington, D.C., will now include “jurisdiction over the Clean Air Act.” | File photo
Renewing his commitment to keep an eye on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Rep. John Shimkus (R-IL) recently accepted a six-year renewal of his post leading the House Energy and Commerce Committee’s Environment Subcommittee.
Shimkus’ domain in Washington, D.C., will now expand to include “jurisdiction over the Clean Air Act,” according to Greenwire, an online observer of energy and environment policy. The position will also include authority regarding power plant emissions and renewable fuel policies.
“I’m honored and excited to continue working directly on issues affecting central and southern Illinois,” Shimkus said. “The subcommittee will take the lead on reining in the EPA, dismantling [President Barack] Obama administration’s anti-coal rules and regulations, and reforming the Renewable Fuels Standard to provide certainty to producers, refiners and consumers.”
Shimkus previously succeeded in spearheading changes in the Toxic Substances Control Act -- a law impacting chemical safety protocols nationwide -- with updates to requirements for EPA testing of more than 85,000 chemicals and other substances.
“John’s work to enact the most meaningful update to our chemical safety laws in 40 years: the tenacity and legislative expertise he will bring to bear as he takes the helm of the Subcommittee on Environment,” Energy and Commerce Committee Chair Greg Walden (R-OR) said, praising Shimkus’ track record and calling the subcommittee’s future a bright one. “I know (he) will work towards enacting solutions that capitalize on our energy abundance and that deliver affordable, reliable electricity, and jobs to folks around the country.”
Shimkus is also slated to serve on the Health, Energy and Communications and Technology subcommittees.
Alerts Sign-up