http://www.nytimes.com/2011/03/17/science/earth/17epa.html?_r=1&hpw
EPA has proposed the first national standard for emissions for mercury and other toxins from coal-burning plants. This rule could lead to the early closing of dozens of generating stations which will obviously be challenged by the industries and the republicans in Congress. Having this standard will prevent thousands of deaths and tens of thousands of cases of disease a year. It was said that households could expect to see their electric bills rise by $3 to $4 a month when the regulation is fully in force after 2015. Also, it was said that installing and maintaining smokestack scrubbers and other control technology would create 31,000 short-term construction jobs and 9,000 permanent utility sector jobs. The cost, 10 billion, is going to be one of the most expensive rules in history. The National Association of Manufacturers said the proposed rule would lead to higher electricity prices and significant job losses. However, others are saying that caring for a child with a birth defect will be more expensive then all of this. We all know money is an issue, but once again no one is looking at the long term benefits.
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