from WTOP
Eleven environmental groups are suing the Department of Energy over its creation of a corridor in the mid-Atlantic region that could smooth the way for new power lines to be built.
Under a 2005 law, the federal government can approve new power transmission towers within the corridors if states and regional groups fail to approve such lines.
The law was passed following the 2003 blackout that rippled from Ohio to Canada and New York City.
Last year, the Energy Department designated the mid-Atlantic corridor and another in the Southwest.
The environmental groups argue that the Department of Energy violated environmental laws by failing to study the impact on air quality, wildlife habitats and other natural resources.
The department says simply designating the corridors has no environmental impact.
The mid-Atlantic corridor includes parts of Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia.
(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
11 Groups Sue Energy Dept. Over Power Line Corridor
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The Associated Press, January 15, 2008
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