EPA’s PM 2.5 NAAQS

Background

Based on the newly finalized standards, many areas that complied with the prior standard will not be in attainment with the revised primary annual PM2.5 National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). States have until February 7, 2025, to identify nonattainment areas, and EPA will designate these areas as nonattainment within a year of that date. Until nonattainment designation occurs, proposed new major sources and major modifications located in any area currently designated attainment or unclassifiable for all preexisting PM2.5 NAAQS will continue to be subject to the Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD) program requirements for PM2.5 but will need to model compliance with revised lower standard. After EPA finalizes nonattainment designations, additional requirements such as emissions offsets will apply under the nonattainment new source review program for purposes of major construction permits in those areas. Companies operating existing facilities, planning to build new facilities, or significantly modify existing facilities in newly designated nonattainment areas will want to examine current emissions technology and plan accordingly.

ACA Action

In collaboration with many other industries and coordinated by the National Association of Manufacturers, ACA is supporting efforts by several members of Congress to submit a resolution of disapproval under the Congressional Review Act to nullify the EPA’s rulemaking. To date, resolutions of disapproval have been introduced in both the House and the Senate to address this rule. S.J.Res. 65 was introduced by Minority Leader McConnell and H.J.Res. 117 was introduced by Rep. Rick Allen (R-GA).

ACA Staff

Heidi McAuliffe
Senior Vice President, Government Affairs