Indiana Governor Braun Limits Environmental Regulations, Bans Environmental Justice Considerations

Indiana Governor Mike Braun has signed two executive orders aimed at simplifying the state's environmental policies. The first order aligns Indiana's environmental standards with federal laws such as the Clean Air Act and Clean Water Act, ensuring that businesses will not face stricter regulations unless mandated by state law. Braun emphasized that adhering to these federal standards will provide regulatory certainty and support economic growth while protecting natural resources. The second order eliminates considerations of 'environmental justice' from state decision-making processes, stating that policies will be based solely on sound scientific data rather than political ideologies. This approach is intended to foster economic development while safeguarding public health. Braun argues that overregulation hinders innovation and raises the cost of living for Hoosiers.