The EPA today formally proposed lowering the current limit for ozone from 75 parts per billion to between 65 and 70 parts per billion. The proposal falls short of the 60 parts per billion favored by environmental groups, but the agency said it would seek public comment on a stricter standard. NERA Economic Consulting said in a recent report a 60-parts-per-billion limit would cost the U.S. economy $270 billion and 2.9 million jobs each year between 2017 and 2040.
American Petroleum Institute CEO Jack Gerard pushed back against the proposal, noting that air quality is improving as companies comply with ozone standards established in 2008. Gerard said the new standard is unachievable and would put nearly the entire nation out of compliance.
“Even pristine areas with no industrial activity such as national parks could be out of attainment,” Gerard said. “Needless to say, operating under such stringent requirements could stifle new investments necessary to create jobs and grow our economy.”
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