EPA extends comments on proposed rule to 
help states meet fine particle standards

WASHINGTON (11/28/05)  -- The U.S. EPA is extending until Jan. 31, 2006 the public comment period on the agency's proposed rule outlining steps that state, local and tribal governments must take to reduce fine particle pollution (PM2.5) in areas that do not meet EPA's health-based air quality standards.

The proposed rule, known as the PM2.5 Implementation Rule, describes the planning framework and requirements for state, local and tribal governments to consider when developing their plans to reduce air pollution to meet the PM2.5 standards. Areas meeting the standard must show how they will ensure that PM2.5 levels remain below the standards.

More information on the proposed rule is available online.