Almost all coal-fired power plants across the United States had the capabilities to adhere to regulations designed to limit emissions of hazardous pollutants such as mercury, which can lead to severe health issues including brain damage in children. Despite this potential compliance, the Trump administration opted to relax these crucial air quality standards, effectively dismissing the science behind the dangers posed by such emissions.

Recently, the Trump administration announced it would ease restrictions on air toxins like mercury and lead, pollutants known for their neurotoxic effects and links to major health concerns, including developmental issues in children and increased risks of heart disease and cancer in adults. The administration's stance reflects a preference for prioritizing energy production reliability over public health and environmental standards, which has drawn criticism from health advocates and environmentalists alike.

In 2024, the Biden administration introduced stricter limits on mercury and other toxic pollutants as part of the updated Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS), which were initially set in 2012. However, the relaxation of these standards during Trump’s era has sparked debate on energy policy versus regulatory measures aimed at protecting public health, with environmental groups arguing that maintaining stringent regulations is essential for safeguarding vulnerable populations, particularly children, from harmful exposure to these pollutants.