EPA proposes looser coal-ash rules, sparking groundwater concerns

The EPA proposed weakening cleanup rules for coal ash disposal, including easing groundwater monitoring, allowing exemptions to national standards, and expanding the reuse of coal ash, moves critics say could leave toxins like mercury and lead in groundwater. The plan would roll back some Biden-era protections that required site-wide cleanup and stricter controls, prompting opposition from environmental groups despite industry calls for flexible, site-specific approaches and potential cost savings.