Ashley Hinson

Rep. Ashley Hinson, R-Iowa, criticized European Union climate and supply chain regulations in an interview with the Washington Reporter, arguing the rules could raise energy and business costs for Iowa families and American companies.

Hinson's comments come in the closing days of Iowa's Republican U.S. Senate primary race in which she hopes to replace retiring GOP Sen. Joni Ernst.

"For too long, woke green energy mandates have driven up costs for Iowa families, and the last thing American businesses need is to be subject to foreign regulations that drive up costs throughout the supply chain," Hinson said. "The EU should end these mandates now."

Hinson was referring to the European Union's (EU) Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive, known as CSDDD.

The directive requires large companies doing business in Europe to comply with environmental and supply chain standards tied to human rights, climate policies and corporate oversight requirements.

The EU claims the rules strengthen labor protections, improve environmental standards, increase transparency and create a more uniform legal framework for companies operating in the EU.

The European Commission also says the rules would improve risk management, increase competitiveness and encourage sustainable investment practices.

Republicans have increasingly criticized the directive, arguing it could effectively export European regulatory standards into the United States and increase compliance costs throughout supply chains.

The Washington Reporter said Hinson has increasingly focused her Senate campaign on affordability, manufacturing, biofuels and energy costs affecting Iowa families and farmers.

The outlet also reported that Senate Republicans view Hinson as a strong candidate on economic and agricultural issues.

Earlier this year, Rep. Andy Barr, R-Ky., warned the EU rules could "jack up energy prices in the United States."

Other Republicans, including Sen. Bill Hagerty, R-Tenn., and Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C., have also criticized the EU's regulatory agenda, arguing it could weaken American competitiveness and increase costs for businesses and consumers.

Under the EU framework, the rules would primarily apply to large companies operating in Europe or conducting substantial business there.