MADISON, Wis. (AP) -- Wisconsin will have tighter mercury standards by the beginning of the year.

The state Department of Natural Resources' plan calls for utilities to cut their mercury emissions by 90 percent by 2018. They can get another five years to reach that goal if they achieve significant reductions in other air pollutants.

Republican lawmakers objected to the rule this summer, calling it too expensive.

The Joint Committee for Review of Administrative Rules had until Monday to hold a hearing on the regulations, but that panel did nothing. The lack of action allowed the plan to take effect.