A coalition of six environmental groups opposed the delay in court, urging the appeals judges to block Pruitt's decision. The judges also said Pruitt lacked the legal authority to delay the rule from taking effect. Environmental groups contend that actual methane emissions from leaks and intentional venting at fossil-fuel operations are many times greater than what is now publicly reported. Oil and gas companies say they were already working to reduce methane emissions and that complying with the new rules would make many low-production wells unprofitable. Pruitt has repeatedly moved in recent months to block or delay environmental regulations opposed by corporate interests.

Source: Fox News July 03, 2017 23:03 UTC