- A 19-state coalition of Republican AGs wrote a letter to the EPA opposing a proposed rule that adjusts the national ambient air quality standards for particulate matter (NAAQS) by lowering the annual allowable levels for air pollution particles of certain sizes.
- In the letter, the AGs assert that the Clean Air Act requires any revisions to EPA standards be supported by science showing the revision is “requisite for the public health.” They argue the EPA’s proposed rule exceeds the EPA’s authority because there is no scientific support for the proposition that the current NAAQS are insufficient to protect public health. They further argue the proposed rule will cause harm to economic development, including the closure of exiting manufacturing and industrial facilities.
- The AGs urge the EPA to withdraw the proposed rule and maintain the current NAAQS.