Missouri House opposes wood stove regulations

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- Missouri House members have endorsed a bill that attempts to resist proposed federal regulations of wood-burning stoves.

The legislation received initial approval Wednesday. It would prohibit the state Department of Natural Resources from implementing regulations on wood-burning heaters without specific approval from the Legislature.

It's prompted by a proposed rule change by the Environmental Protection Agency that would give manufacturers five years to meet tougher standards that would reduce emissions from wood stoves by an estimated 80 percent.

Some manufacturers contend it would drive up the costs and could put them out of business.

Supporters of the Missouri legislation hope to prevent state regulators from helping to implement the proposed EPA regulations.

The bill needs another House vote to move to the Senate.