Trump proposes easing of environmental rules to speed up infrastructure work

The Trump administration is proposing a new rule to ease environmental restrictions and speed up some major infrastructure projects, a move that worries environmentalists concerned about climate change. Specifically, the administration is easing up on regulations under the National Environmental Policy Act, claiming it’s outdated.

“These endless delays waste money, keep projects from breaking ground, and deny jobs to our nation’s incredible workers,” the president said from the Roosevelt Room on Thursday. 

The president said they’re still going to have very “strong” regulation, but do it “quickly.” 

The event comes after the president’s announcement that the U.S. will impose new sanctions on Iran after its missile attack on Iraqi bases housing U.S. troops. Mr. Trump said Iran appears to be backing down, but emphasized U.S. military might is ready whenever needed. 

On Thursday night, the president heads to Toledo, Ohio, for his first rally of 2020. Shortly before that rally, members of Congress are scheduled to vote on a war powers resolution limiting the president’s authority for taking action against Iran without consulting Congress.