House kills Dem amendments to bill delaying cement regulations

But Republicans rejected these charges, just as they joined together in the votes to oppose the Democrat proposals. All told, the House rejected the following amendments to the bill, H.R. 2681:

Henry Waxman (D-Calif.), prevent the delay of EPA actions to reduce cement kiln emissions if they are harming brain development or causing learning disabilities. Rejected 166-246.

Bobby Rush (D-Ill.), specify that the bill is intended to supplement the Clean Air Act, not supersede any requirement of that act. Rejected 162-251.

Lois Capps (D-Calif.), insert language saying the rules at issue would avoid up to 2,500 premature deaths, 1,500 nonfatal heart attacks, 1,000 emergency room visits, 17,000 cases of asthma, and 130,000 days of missed work. Rejected 158-254.

Jan Schakowsky (D-Ill.), add a finding that says mercury released into the air from cement kilns is a neurotoxin that can damage the development of an infant’s brain. Rejected 175-248.

Waxman, add language requiring the government to determine whether the bill authorizes the appropriation of funds to implement mandates in the bill, and if so, whether it requires spending in other areas to be cut. Rejected 167-254.

Waxman, insert a finding that says Congress expects that the rules at issue were to come into effect, they would reduce the amount of mercury deposits on land and in water. Rejected 169-254.

Frank Pallone (D-NJ), add language allowing provisions of the bill to be waived if it’s found that uncontrolled mercury threatens to impede efforts to improve the health of children. Rejected 166-253.

Sheila Jackson Lee (D-Texas), reduce the proposed compliance period for companies from five years to three years. Rejected 162-262.

Mike Quigley (D-Ill.), add language saying EPA actions cannot be delayed if cement plant emissions are found to be increasing the risk of cancer. Rejected 175-248.

Gerry Connolly (D-Va.), preventing the delay of rules if doing so would reduce emissions causing illnesses and death. Rejected 176-248.

Peter Welch (D-Vt.), add a finding that Americans are exposed to mercury. Rejected 174-249.

Gwen Moore (D-Wis.), require the President to certify that the bill would not adversely affect public health. Rejected 167-256.

Keith Ellison (D-Minn.), require the EPA to publish a notice on the public health impact of delaying this regulation, within 60 days of passage. Rejected 179-252.