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Hoekstra Seeks to Prevent Overly Restrictive EPA Regulations for Ottawa, Kent Counties
Local Economies would Face Penalties Based upon Inconclusive Data on Soot
Washington,
Nov 21 -
U.S. Rep. Pete Hoekstra, R-Holland, has received a response from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) stating that the EPA would accept new data on Particulate Matter 2.5 before designating Kent and Ottawa counties in non-attainment. Hoekstra today sent a request to Governor Jennifer Granholm to submit the necessary new data as soon as it becomes available.
“I consistently advocate for cleaner and safer air quality, but Washington should not punish Ottawa and Kent counties before analyzing the complete data,” Hoekstra said. “The EPA should collect all available information before imposing any overly restrictive and costly penalties that would negatively impact the local economy.”
The EPA recently recommended non-attainment status under new Clean Air Act standards for Ottawa and Kent counties for Particulate Matter 2.5, commonly referred to as soot, even though Kent was only one point above the new standard and Ottawa was below the threshold.
Hoekstra formally requested that the EPA use 2008 data before issuing final designations. Non-attainment would subject Ottawa and Kent counties to immediate emissions controls and sanctions for new industries, costly and restrictive transportation requirements after one year and require the development of a plan to meet the new standard within three years.
“Incorporating 2008 data will provide for a more accurate reflection of the air quality in Ottawa and Kent counties,” Hoekstra said. “It will potentially prevent a new barrier to economic growth and job creation from emerging based upon incomplete evidence.”
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