Western South Dakota News

U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune delivered remarks on the Senate floor, focusing on the Biden administration's energy policies. Thune criticized the administration, claiming that their approach over the past four years has jeopardized U.S. energy security.

"Mr. President, over the last four years the Biden administration put our energy security on a dangerous trajectory," Thune stated. He argued that the administration's regulations have restricted oil and gas development and threatened power plants with new regulatory burdens. Thune also mentioned the administration's push for electric cars, suggesting it would strain the existing power grid.

According to Thune, November's elections indicated the public's demand for change. In response, Republican majorities in Congress, alongside the Trump administration, have prioritized the reversal of these regulations. He noted significant deregulatory actions by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), such as addressing the "Good Neighbor Rule" and "Clean Power Plan 2.0," which sought to close fossil-fuel power plants.

In addition, Thune highlighted ongoing efforts to revise the Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule. He mentioned, "I know farmers and ranchers in my state of South Dakota would have appreciated a seat at the table before the Biden administration resurrected this harmful policy."

Thune announced the EPA's termination of Biden's electric vehicle mandate, citing concerns from South Dakota residents about replacing conventional vehicles. He also expressed support for deregulatory efforts in Congress, referencing actions such as removing regulations on offshore energy development and opposing Biden-era walk-in freezer regulations.

The Senate, according to Thune, will vote later in the week on a resolution regarding gas water heater standards. "This rule would not only increase the cost of water heaters for American homeowners, it would also imperil U.S. manufacturing jobs," he said.

Thune's remarks emphasized the adverse effects of these regulations on various sectors and small businesses. He concluded by reaffirming the Republicans' commitment to reducing regulatory burdens for the American public.