Trump administration to repeal 2009 finding on greenhouse gases

The administration plans to rescind the 2009 endangerment finding that underpins federal rules on CO2 and other greenhouse gases, and several environmental groups have announced they will challenge the repeal in court.

The White House and the Environmental Protection Agency are moving to rescind the 2009 endangerment finding that determined CO2 and other greenhouse gases endanger public health and welfare. The White House press secretary said the repeal will be formalized with President Trump and EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin on Thursday. The 2009 finding provides the legal basis used to regulate greenhouse gas emissions under the Clean Air Act. Several environmental groups have stated they will pursue legal challenges against the repeal. Key facts: - The White House press secretary announced that the administration will formalize the rescission of the 2009 endangerment finding and said EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin will join the president for the action. - The 2009 endangerment finding established that greenhouse gases endanger public health and welfare and underpins many federal climate regulations, including vehicle and other emissions standards. - EPA received roughly half a million public comments after Zeldin announced the proposal in July 2025 and submitted the repeal for White House review last month. - Environmental groups including the Natural Resources Defense Council, Environmental Defense Fund and Earthjustice have publicly said they will challenge the repeal in court. Summary: If finalized, the repeal would remove the legal basis used to justify many federal greenhouse gas regulations. Environmental groups have announced lawsuits and legal challenges are expected. Timing for any court cases or judicial rulings is undetermined at this time.