Revise laws related to air quality standards
What changed between versions
Added restrictions preventing the department from setting emission limits more stringent than federal Clean Air Act standards, except in nonattainment areas or when required to meet national ambient air quality standards.
Required written findings based on peer-reviewed scientific studies and cost analysis when adopting rules more stringent than federal regulations, including protection of public health and achievability with current technology.
Created a petition process allowing affected parties to challenge department rules adopted before April 14, 1995, that exceed comparable federal regulations, with the department required to either revise the rule or follow a specific process within 6 months.
Added a specific date reference (April 14, 1995) as a cutoff for when stricter state rules can be challenged under the new petition process.
Clarified that the department may use widely recognized measuring systems for emission measurements.