Trump Plans to Loosen Methane Rules for Oil Wells
President Donald Trump is set to announce a proposed rule loosening methane requirements for oil and gas producers. The setting is a Tuesday rally in Lubbock, Texas.
- 15 barrels of oil equivalent daily is the average marginal well output.
- $6.35 per gallon: nationwide diesel prices remain at record levels.
- The proposal would rescind the Super Emitter Program for detecting large releases.
- It would also ease requirements phasing out some routine flaring.
Why it matters: The plan revisits the Biden administration's 2024 methane and pollution standards, known as OOOOb/c. The White House ties it to lowering fuel prices.
- Marginal wells: under 5% of supply, nearly 50% of industry methane.
- The announcement comes one week before the midterm elections.
How 21 sources split on this story
Where they split: The core dispute is whether lower costs for small producers justify easing rules on wells the EPA links to nearly half of industry methane.
Right coverage, 8 sources: The right frames the rule as relief for small producers unfairly grouped with major companies, and as a step toward lower fuel prices.
What’s next: The EPA said it will propose two options, with separate standards for different marginal well types.
- How much would methane emissions change under each EPA option?
- Would the rule measurably affect fuel or heating prices for consumers?
