Don't mess with Texas, state tells EPA

HOUSTON, Aug. 26 (UPI) -- Energy officials in Texas said they were challenging cross-state air pollution rules spelled out by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

The Texas Railroad Commission, which regulates surface mining of coal, called on the state's attorney general to challenge the EPA's pollution rules.

Texas is one of 27 states required under EPA rules to cut power plant emissions that cross state lines. The state says the rule threatens its citizens' livelihood and would force it to reduce electricity generation.

The commission said the EPA is making flawed decisions and blames an "overzealous" U.S. President Barack Obama and his administration for deliberately moving to hurt the Texas economy.

Commission Member David Porter said the EPA's rules means coal-fired power plants in the state have no option but to reduce output at a time when many Texans are facing a stifling heat wave.

"Don't mess with Texas," added commission Chairwoman Elizabeth Ames Jones in her statement.

There were no public comments available from Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott or the EPA.