EPA’S Ozone Rule “Will Inflict Pain”

• Last Thursday, EPA finalized a new ozone standard of 70 parts per billion.

• This standard will push large swaths of the country into “non-attainment” with national ambient air quality standards.

• It is the latest volley in the Obama administration’s regulatory assault on the American economy.

Last Thursday, the Environmental Protection Agency finalized an ozone standard of 70 parts per billion. This was down from 75 ppb established in 2008 by the Bush administration. EPA estimates the new standard will impose costs of $1.4 billion per year on the nation (except California) in 2025; and $800 million per year on California after 2025.

While the “worst-case scenario was avoided,” the National Association of Manufacturers warned, “the new ozone standard will inflict pain on companies that build things in America – and destroy job opportunities for American workers.”

At 70 ppb, the ozone standard will push large swaths of the country into “non-attainment” with national ambient air quality standards – forcing states and localities to curb energy production, manufacturing development, agricultural operations, transportation projects, and economic growth. This will raise the cost of everyday living and destroy middle class jobs.

A Barrage of Energy Regulations

The new ozone rule came in the wake of a refinery emissions rule and effluent limitation guidelines that the EPA also finalized last week. These are the latest in a series of executive actions that the Obama administration has taken, and plans to take, that will constrain the American economy.

Obama’s regulatory assault on energy and manufacturing continues