WASHINGTON -- The National Association of Manufacturers is questioning pending US Environmental Protection Agency permitting guidance for greenhouse gas emissions. The new rules go in to effect Jan. 2.

In a statement, NAM president John Engler said, “While we are still in the process of reviewing the document, manufacturers remain very concerned with the EPA’s overreaching agenda, and today’s release of the greenhouse gas permitting guidance raises more questions than answers. The EPA continues to create uncertainty for manufacturers as we move closer to the January 2, 2011 deadline. While the agency has requested public comment, the short timeframe will hinder stakeholders’ ability to provide robust feedback.

"It is also questionable whether the state agencies have the resources or the capacity to expeditiously issue new permits. Manufacturers cannot afford additional permitting delays that will hinder decision-making and certainty for their business.”