The new rules will eventually require landfill operators to take action when a satellite or airplane detects a methane leak, improve routine leak monitoring and reporting and mandate stronger action on recurring issues. The protections will add to a suite of regulations the state passed in 2010, which made California the first state to develop stricter standards than the federal government.
Mr McDonagh insisted, however, that he was making "all relevant disclosures" as required, but he declined to discuss his personal affairs concerning reports of renting a house.