Worst Katrina Excuse I've Heard

A group of senators want to challenge the proposed EPA regulation on mercury emissions that would set up a system of tradable allowances on emissions of the toxic metal. Unless Congress votes to send the rule back to EPA for reconsideration, the regulation will take effect.
The emission trading approach, which can work for greenhouse gasses that affect large regions, makes little sense for a heavy metal which, when released into the air, tends to accumulate near its source.
The Times reports that one utility industry spokesman cited the toll from Katrina as a reason to allow the regulation to take effect:

Scott Segal, director of the Electric Reliability Coordinating Council, a trade group, accused the senators of misusing the review act and taking up valuable Senate time when more pressing issues were facing the country.
"Frankly, we are quite surprised that the Senate may make time to even consider this petition," Mr. Segal said, alluding to the mounting problems caused by Hurricane Katrina. "We can hardly think of a worse time to be doing so."