Last month, I posted about changes proposed by EPA Administrator Jackson to the 
National Ambient Air Quality Standards. These standards are the required limits on the acceptable levels of varying pollutants, including ground ozone. Specifically, the proposal saught to decrease the ozone primary standard from 0.075 ppm to between 0.060 to 0.070 ppm. Many in the business realm spoke out against the changes, stating they would harm both existing and new businesses at a time when such economic impact was most damaging.
On Friday, the Obama Administration announced they would not move forward with the proposed change to the legislation. In his brief statement, the President reaffirmed his dedication to the environment and to the work of the EPA. He then stated, “At the same time, I have continued to underscore the importance of reducing regulatory burdens and regulatory uncertainty, particularly as our economy continues to recover. With that in mind, and after careful consideration, I have requested that Administrator Jackson withdraw the draft Ozone National Ambient Air Quality Standards at this time.”
Administrator Jackson’s response, quoted by the NY Times, was “We will revisit the ozone standard, in compliance with the Clean Air Act.”
To read the President’s full statement, please click here.
UPDATE 10/7/11: You can also read the full letter sent to Dr. Jackson from the President’s office here.
