The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has proposed to approve Alabama's request to manage its own coal waste permits, a significant shift from a previous denial under the Biden administration. This move aligns with a broader initiative by former President Donald Trump to delegate more regulatory authority from the federal government to individual states.

Under the Trump administration, the EPA had previously rejected Alabama's bid. However, the agency is now signaling a reversal, indicating a willingness to grant the state greater control over the issuance of permits related to coal combustion residuals, commonly known as coal ash.

This proposed approval is a part of a larger pattern of deregulation and devolution of power seen during Trump's presidency. The initiative aims to streamline permitting processes and allow states to tailor environmental regulations to their specific needs and circumstances. The EPA's decision is open for public comment before a final ruling is made, but the proposed approval suggests a favorable outlook for Alabama's request.