The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has proposed significant rollbacks of regulations concerning the handling and disposal of toxic coal ash, a waste product from coal-burning power plants. This proposal, spearheaded by the Trump administration, aims to ease federal requirements and oversight, which critics warn could threaten groundwater and public health. Environmental groups, including Waterkeeper Alliance, have condemned the decision, asserting that weakening these protections serves to bolster the coal industry at the expense of community health and safety. The proposed changes could allow for more flexible storage of coal waste, leading to increased risks of contamination and environmental damage.