Arguments about the impacts of EPA regulations on the economy are pointing in all directions. It seems equally divided for those saying the regulations have hurt the economy to those saying exactly the opposite.

Many involved in industry complain that the regulations forced upon them by the EPA are hurting the economy and the job market. This is nothing new and such arguments have been made since the EPA was created in 1969.

  I really do not think that anybody can deny that our air and water is much cleaner today than it was in 1969. Certainly, if you take the time to listen to some of the activist environmental groups, you would be led to thinking the end is coming at any time because of the evil industrial empires. But, when you get them to sit for a moment to look at actual data, they usually agree that things have improved but then they quickly clasp on to the notion that so much more is still to be done and they head back to their posters and banners.

  It is a shame that the far extremists cannot give credit where it is due. They seem to think that corporations are all just greedy and seek to make a profit at any cost. They also think corporations control endless springs of money and cost should be no object. Certainly, there is no denying that there are unscrupulous managers that have few inhibitions. That is why we have court systems and the EPA has enforcement authority. I also think the unscrupulous are a minority and the Enrons and Madoffs will eventually be brought to justice.

  But, it is also true that there is no bottomless pit filled with money. The economy is in the tank and unemployment is causing a sadness that is permeating all corners of the world right now. It is just common sense that at such times, we have to cut back and put off some things we want to do but we keep them written down on a wish list. President Obama acknowledged that when he told the EPA to hold off on enforcing lower limits for ozone right now. Additionally, the U.S. House just passed legislation that will require the EPA to re-propose regulations on the cement manufacturing industry and solid waste incinerators. According to news reports, the EPA is also considering backing off on some parts of the Cross-State Air Pollution Rule for now. TSome of the EPA regulations that were proposed are adding a huge burden that not only impacts industry but the consumer as well. Jobs will be at risk because the companies just cannot make up the lost revenue with the economy in the tank as it is now so their only recourse is to cut costs, which usually means reduced manpower.

  It is just like our home lives. It is not that we don’t want to buy digital televisions to replace all of the ones in our homes simply because the government made all of the broadcasters drop analog and change to digital; it is that we just cannot afford it. The businesses and industry have to recover. The average Joe has to be able to realize a substantial raise in pay to get back on his feet and be able count on annual adjustments to keep up with expected huge increases in expenses such as health care. Once that is accomplished, and he feels comfortable, then he can buy TVs. Then industry can again invest in cleaner technology. Any good parent knows that you cannot win an argument with your child by ending the conversation with, "Because I said so!"