EPA rolls out new smog-fighting rules designed to reduce pollution crossing state lines

The EPA is rolling out new smog-fighting rules that aim to clear up air across the country targeting pollution from power plants and other industrial sources like smelters and cement plants.

The “good neighbor” rule tightens nitrogen oxide emissions levels from power plants and other sources in 23 states, and when fully implemented by 2026 would eliminate 1,000 premature deaths, and avoid more than 2,000 hospital and emergency room visits, 1.3 million cases of asthma symptoms, and 470,000 school absence days, the agency said.

The cost for power plants and other sources is about $1.1 billion but saves the country at least $9 billion in associated health and other costs, the EPA estimated. 

Under the plan, states that contribute to smog are required to submit plans ensuring that coal-fired power plants and other industrial sites don’t add significantly to air pollution in other states.

In cases where a state has not submitted a “good neighbor” plan — or where EPA disapproves a state plan — the federal plan would take effect to ensure downwind states are protected.

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Context on ‘good neighbor’ rule

Environmental groups have long pushed EPA to adopt tougher rules to prevent air pollution from drifting across state lines. Nitrogen oxide forms ozone at ground level, causing breathing difficulties.