ACC supports EPA funding measure prevent to lower ozone standards

The American Chemistry Council (ACC) issued a statement July 8 supporting measures in the fiscal 2016 EPA-interior appropriations bill that would prevent the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from lowering ozone national ambient air quality standards (NAAQS) until 85 percent of counties reach the current levels.

“We commend Chairman Hal Rogers (R-Ky.) and Congressman Evan Jenkins (R-W.V.) for seeking to maintain today’s ozone standards—the most stringent ever—as more communities come into compliance,” said the statement. “By focusing on helping those states and facilities that are falling short, EPA could promote continued air quality improvement alongside manufacturing growth.”

The EPA proposed new NAAQS standards in November 2014 that would lower the current rate of 75 parts per billion to a number in the range of 65 to 70 parts per billion. According to the ACC statement, 2,000 counties in 45 states would be unable to meet the lower range of those standards.

“Industry located in non-attainment areas can face increased operating costs, regulatory permitting delays and restrictions on building or improving facilities,” according to the statement. “EPA’s plan makes little sense when ozone concentrations are falling, manufacturers are expanding and the new production is cleaner and state-of-the-art. We urge lawmakers to approve H.R. 2822.”