Why Growing Support for Stricter Environmental Laws is Outpacing Opposition in Many States

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced plans to roll back several environmental regulations impacting the oil and gas industry. This move has sparked varied reactions across the country.

According to a recent Pew Research Center survey, about 60% of Americans believe stricter environmental laws are worth the cost. However, opinions differ significantly along political lines. A striking 82% of Democrats support these regulations, while 59% of Republicans feel they could negatively impact jobs and the economy.

State sentiments about these regulations also vary. In Washington D.C. and Minnesota, 71% see the benefits of stricter laws. Conversely, in Wyoming, a majority feels such regulations harm job availability.

States heavily reliant on fossil fuels tend to be less supportive of tough regulations. For instance, in North Dakota, only 48% support stricter laws, compared to 70% in Vermont, where the economy is less dependent on fossil fuels.

Interestingly, a survey in summer 2023 revealed that 63% of Americans think the federal government isn’t doing enough to protect air and water quality. Many also feel a stronger push is needed to combat climate change.

Overall, while support for environmental laws is strong, the economic implications and regional differences play a significant role in shaping opinions. For more detailed insights into public perceptions of federal efforts in environmental protection, check out the full survey methodology from Pew Research here.

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