Plan to ease rules: The Trump administration plans to loosen federal methane emission rules for oil and gas companies, particularly for marginal wells that produce relatively little fuel but account for a disproportionate share of industry methane pollution. The EPA says easing the requirements could save the industry $45 billion through 2050 and support domestic energy production, while environmental groups warn the changes could worsen climate change and increase exposure to harmful pollutants. The administration also plans to end a program that uses satellites and other technology to identify major methane leaks, though some states are maintaining or strengthening their own emissions regulations. The New York Times has the full story.
New facility to open: Cat Haven will open a new 7,000-square-foot facility at 530 Shadows Lane in Baton Rouge in November, featuring a cat cafe where visitors can interact with adoptable cats. The expanded no-kill shelter will house 125 cats and include upgraded medical facilities, quarantine rooms and an outdoor play area; cafe visits will cost $19 for 50 minutes. The cafe will accommodate eight cats and eight visitors at a time, with all cats available for adoption as the organization builds on its record of rescuing more than 20,000 cats. 225 has the full story.
Slight rebound: American confidence in the economy rebounded somewhat in October as gas prices fell modestly, though it remains much more expensive to fill up a tank than last year at this time. The Conference Board said Tuesday that its consumer confidence index rose 7.5 points to 91.7 in October from 84.2 last month. September’s reading was the lowest in the board’s survey since April 2014 and below the lowest level reached during the pandemic. The Associated Press has the full story.
What should the state’s top priority be in addressing the growing orphan oil and gas well problem?
