Kentucky resolution would defy EPA fossil fuel regs like ‘sanctuary cities’ do for immigration

Republicans in the Kentucky House are proposing a resolution that would create “a sanctuary state” for fossil fuel-powered generators.

The resolution, which was assigned to a committee Wednesday, appears to be modeled after the concept of “sanctuary cities,” which are local jurisdictions that have agreed not to comply with federal immigration regulations.

The resolution aims to exempt Kentucky from EPA regulations regarding coal- and natural gas-fired power plants. Permitting for such facilities would be done by the state, and Kentucky agencies would be prohibited from collecting fines or penalties for violations of federal regulations related to fossil fuel-fired power plants.

According to the Energy Information Administration, nearly 92% of Kentucky’s electricity generation is powered by fossil fuels. Hydroelectric accounted for 7% of the total generation, and renewable energy provided 1%.