"Congressional negotiators reached a deal Tuesday that would effectively exempt 13 ships that haul iron ore, coal and other freight on the Great Lakes from a proposed federal rule meant to reduce air pollution.
The Lake Carriers' Association, which represents the 55 U.S.-flagged vessels that operate on the lakes, had asked for at least a partial exemption from rules proposed by the Environmental Protection Agency that would require large vessels operating within 200 miles of a U.S. coast to use cleaner -- and costlier -- fuel and improve engine technology.
Negotiators in Washington approved the exemption as part of a natural resources spending bill. The measure could be voted on in the House as early as Wednesday."
John Flesher reports for the Associated Press October 27, 2009.
"Deal Struck on Great Lakes Ship Pollution"
Source: AP, 10/29/2009