North Dakota Gets Extension To Meet Emissions Standards

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — The federal agency mandating a significant reduction in carbon dioxide emissions from coal-fueled power plants in North Dakota is giving the state more time to submit an implementation plan.

North Dakota's congressional delegation says Environmental Protection Agency officials have agreed to move the deadline from September 2016 to the fall of 2018.

North Dakota is among 16 states that will have to reduce carbon dioxide emissions the most under EPA rules unveiled in August by President Barack Obama. Under the new standards, North Dakota must cut its emission rate almost 45 percent by 2030.

State officials have said they're considering a legal fight.