Waukesha Times

The Waukesha Business Alliance has expressed support for a recent decision by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit to stay the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) reclassification of southeastern Wisconsin counties, including Waukesha, as “Serious” nonattainment areas under the 2015 ozone standard.

This court ruling prevents the immediate enforcement of stricter air quality regulations in these counties. The Alliance stated that such regulations would have led to increased permitting and compliance costs for local businesses without significant environmental improvements. The organization acknowledged contributions from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, the Wisconsin Assembly and Senate, MMAC, WMC, and other business community members who were involved in addressing this issue.

“While we strongly support clean air, these regulations would have penalized Wisconsin businesses for pollution largely generated out of state,” said Amanda Payne, President & CEO of the Alliance. “This decision is a win for employers and the thousands of workers who rely on a balanced, science-based approach to environmental policy.”

The Alliance indicated it will continue collaborating with regional partners to promote regulations that are fair and based on data, aiming to balance environmental protection with economic interests.