EPAProposed Rule

Air Quality State Implementation Plans; Approvals and Promulgations: Nonattainment Designation for the 2008 and 2015 Ozone Standards and Clean Data Determinations for the 2008 and 2015 Ozone Standards: Cecil County, MD and New Castle County, DE

EnvironmentHealthcare

Summary

The EPA is proposing to designate parts of Maryland and Delaware as areas that do not meet federal air quality standards for ozone pollution. This means these regions will need to develop plans to reduce smog and ground-level ozone, which can harm people's health, especially children and those with breathing problems.

Key Points

  • 1Cecil County, Maryland and New Castle County, Delaware are being evaluated for not meeting EPA ozone standards set in 2008 and 2015
  • 2If approved, these areas must create improvement plans to reduce ozone pollution from cars, factories, and other sources
  • 3The regulation affects residents in these counties who breathe the air and may experience health problems from smog exposure
  • 4States have a deadline to submit air quality improvement plans that show how they will meet federal standards
  • 5The public can comment on this proposed rule until February 10, 2026

Impact Assessment

If you are a manufacturer or transportation company in Cecil County, MD or New Castle County, DE, this means you will need to comply with stricter air quality regulations and may face emissions limits or operational restrictions as part of your state's plan to reduce ground-level ozone.

Impact Level
Significant
Geographic Scope

State-specific

Compliance Cost

Significant

Who is Affected
ManufacturersTransportation CompaniesEnergy CompaniesState Governments

Key Dates

Published

January 23, 2026

Comment Deadline

February 10, 2026

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Regulatory Connections

Amends CFR Sections
40 CFR Part 5140 CFR Part 81

This summary is for informational purposes only. It may not capture all nuances of the regulation. Always refer to the official text for authoritative information.

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