Air Plan Approval; Rhode Island; Infrastructure State Implementation Plan Requirements for the 2015 Ozone

Published date17 August 2021
Citation86 FR 45939
Record Number2021-17544
SectionProposed rules
CourtEnvironmental Protection Agency
Federal Register, Volume 86 Issue 156 (Tuesday, August 17, 2021)
[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 156 (Tuesday, August 17, 2021)]
                [Proposed Rules]
                [Pages 45939-45947]
                From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
                [FR Doc No: 2021-17544]
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                ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
                40 CFR Part 52
                [EPA-R01-OAR-2020-0562; FRL-8855-01-R1]
                Air Plan Approval; Rhode Island; Infrastructure State
                Implementation Plan Requirements for the 2015 Ozone
                AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
                ACTION: Proposed rule.
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                SUMMARY: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing to
                approve a State Implementation Plan (SIP) revision submitted by the
                State of Rhode Island. This revision addresses the infrastructure
                requirements of the Clean Air Act (CAA or Act) for the 2015 ozone
                National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). This proposed action
                includes all elements of these infrastructure requirements except for
                portions of the ``Good Neighbor'' or ``transport'' provisions, which
                will be addressed in a future action. The infrastructure requirements
                are designed to ensure that the structural components of each state's
                air quality management program are adequate to meet the state's
                responsibilities under the CAA. This action is being taken under the
                Clean Air Act.
                DATES: Written comments must be received on or before September 16,
                2021.
                ADDRESSES: Submit your comments, identified by Docket ID No. EPA-R01-
                OAR-2020-0562 at https://www.regulations.gov, or via email to
                [email protected]. For comments submitted at Regulations.gov,
                follow the online instructions for submitting comments. Once submitted,
                comments cannot be edited or removed from Regulations.gov. For either
                manner of submission, the EPA may publish any comment received to its
                public docket. Do not submit electronically any information you
                consider to be Confidential Business Information (CBI) or other
                information whose disclosure is restricted by statute. Multimedia
                submissions (audio, video, etc.) must be accompanied by a written
                comment. The written comment is considered the official comment and
                should include discussion of all points you wish to make. The EPA will
                generally not consider comments or comment contents located outside of
                the primary submission (i.e., on the web, cloud, or other file sharing
                system). For additional submission methods, please contact the person
                identified in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section. For the full
                EPA public comment policy, information about CBI or multimedia
                submissions, and general guidance on making effective comments, please
                visit https://www.epa.gov/dockets/commenting-epa-dockets. Publicly
                available docket materials are available at https://www.regulations.gov
                or at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, EPA Region 1 Regional
                Office, Air and Radiation Division, 5 Post Office Square--Suite 100,
                Boston, MA. EPA requests that, if at all possible, you contact the
                contact listed in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section to
                schedule your inspection. The Regional Office's official hours of
                business are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., excluding
                legal holidays and facility closures due to COVID-19.
                FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Alison C. Simcox, Air Quality Branch,
                U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, EPA Region 1, 5 Post Office
                Square--Suite 100, (Mail code 05-2), Boston, MA 02109--3912, tel. (617)
                918-1684, email [email protected].
                SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Throughout this document whenever ``we,''
                ``us,'' or ``our'' is used, we mean EPA.
                Table of Contents
                I. Background and Purpose
                 A. What is the scope of this rulemaking?
                 B. What guidance did EPA use to evaluate Rhode Island's
                infrastructure SIP?
                II. EPA's Evaluation of Rhode Island's Infrastructure SIP
                 A. Section 110(a)(2)(A)--Emission Limits and Other Control
                Measures
                 B. Section 110(a)(2)(B)--Ambient Air Quality Monitoring/Data
                System
                 C. Section 110(a)(2)(C)--Program for Enforcement of Control
                Measures and for Construction or Modification of Stationary Sources
                [[Page 45940]]
                 D. Section 110(a)(2)(D)--Interstate Transport
                 E. Section 110(a)(2)(E)--Adequate Resources
                 F. Section 110(a)(2)(F)--Stationary Source Monitoring System
                 G. Section 110(a)(2)(G)--Emergency Powers
                 H. Section 110(a)(2)(H)--Future SIP Revisions
                 I. Section 110(a)(2)(I)--Nonattainment Area Plan or Plan
                Revisions Under Part D
                 J. Section 110(a)(2)(J)--Consultation With Government Officials;
                Public Notifications; Prevention of Significant Deterioration;
                Visibility Protection
                 K. Section 110(a)(2)(K)--Air Quality Modeling/Data
                 L. Section 110(a)(2)(L)--Permitting Fees
                 M. Section 110(a)(2)(M)--Consultation/Participation by Affected
                Local Entities.
                III. Proposed Action
                IV. Statutory and Executive Order Reviews
                I. Background and Purpose
                 On October 1, 2015, EPA promulgated a revision to the ozone NAAQS
                (2015 ozone NAAQS), lowering the level of both the primary and
                secondary standards to 0.070 parts per million (ppm).\1\ Section
                110(a)(1) of the CAA requires states to submit, within 3 years after
                promulgation of a new or revised standard, SIPs meeting the applicable
                requirements of section 110(a)(2).\2\ On September 23, 2020, the Rhode
                Island Department of Environmental Services (RI DEM) submitted a
                revision to its State Implementation Plan (SIP).\3\ The SIP revision
                addresses the infrastructure requirements of CAA sections 110(a)(1) and
                110(a)(2) for the 2015 ozone NAAQS.
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                 \1\ National Ambient Air Quality Standards for Ozone, Final
                Rule, 80 FR 65292 (October 26, 2015). Although the level of the
                standard is specified in the units of ppm, ozone concentrations are
                also described in parts per billion (ppb). For example, 0.070 ppm is
                equivalent to 70 ppb.
                 \2\ SIP revisions that are intended to meet the applicable
                requirements of section 110(a)(1) and (2) of the CAA are often
                referred to as infrastructure SIPs, and the applicable elements
                under 110(a)(2) are referred to as infrastructure requirements.
                 \3\ On October 15, 2020 RI DEM submitted a letter that clarified
                that the state had replaced the word ``Proposed'' in Appendix A
                (``Good Neighbor SIP'') with the word ``Final.'' Note that today's
                proposed action does not include this ``Good Neighbor'' (i.e.,
                transport) SIP, which will be addressed in a future action. The
                October 2020 clarification letter is included in the docket for
                today's action.
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                A. What is the scope of this rulemaking?
                 EPA is proposing to approve a SIP revision submitted by Rhode
                Island on September 23, 2020, addressing the infrastructure
                requirements of CAA sections 110(a)(1) and 110(a)(2) for the 2015 ozone
                NAAQS, except for portions of the transport provisions, which will be
                addressed in a separate action.
                 Whenever EPA promulgates a new or revised NAAQS, CAA section
                110(a)(1) requires states to make ``infrastructure SIP submissions'' to
                provide for the implementation, maintenance, and enforcement of the
                NAAQS. These submissions must meet the various requirements of CAA
                section 110(a)(2), as applicable. Due to ambiguity in some of the
                language of CAA section 110(a)(2), EPA believes that it is appropriate
                to interpret these provisions in the specific context of acting on
                infrastructure SIP submissions. EPA has previously provided
                comprehensive guidance on the application of these provisions through a
                guidance document for infrastructure SIP submissions and through
                regional actions on infrastructure submissions.\4\ Unless otherwise
                noted below, we are following that approach in acting on this
                submission. In addition, in the context of acting on such
                infrastructure submissions, EPA evaluates the submitting state's SIP
                for compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements, not for the
                state's implementation of its SIP.\5\ EPA has other authority to
                address any issues concerning a state's implementation of the rules,
                regulations, consent orders, etc. that comprise its SIP.
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                 \4\ EPA explains and elaborates on these ambiguities and its
                approach to address them in its September 13, 2013, Infrastructure
                SIP Guidance (available in the docket for today's action), as well
                as in numerous agency actions, including EPA's prior action on Rhode
                Island's infrastructure SIP to address the 2008 Ozone NAAQS. See 81
                FR 10168 (February 29, 2016).
                 \5\ See Montana Envtl. Info. Ctr. v. Thomas, 902 F.3d 971 (9th
                Cir. 2018).
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                B. What guidance did EPA use to evaluate Rhode Island's infrastructure
                SIP submission?
                 EPA highlighted the statutory requirement to submit infrastructure
                SIPs within 3 years of promulgation of a new NAAQS in an October 2,
                2007, guidance document entitled ``Guidance on SIP Elements Required
                Under sections 110(a)(1) and (2) for the 1997 8-hour Ozone and
                PM2.5 National Ambient Air Quality Standards'' (2007
                memorandum).\6\ EPA has issued additional guidance documents and
                memoranda, including a September 13, 2013, guidance document entitled
                ``Guidance on Infrastructure State Implementation Plan (SIP) Elements
                under Clean Air Act sections 110(a)(1) and 110(a)(2)'' (2013
                memorandum).
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                 \6\ All referenced memoranda are included in the docket for
                today's action.
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                II. EPA's Evaluation of Rhode Island's Infrastructure SIP for the 2015
                Ozone Standard
                 Rhode Island's September 23, 2020, submission includes a detailed
                list of Rhode Island Laws and SIP-approved Air Quality Regulations that
                show how each component of its EPA-approved SIP meets the requirements
                of section 110(a)(2) of the CAA for the 2015 ozone NAAQS. The following
                review evaluates the state's submission in light of section 110(a)(2)
                requirements and relevant EPA guidance. For Rhode Island's September
                2020 infrastructure submission, we provide an evaluation of the
                applicable section 110(a)(2) elements, excluding the transport
                provisions.
                A. Section 110(a)(2)(A)--Emission Limits and Other Control Measures
                 This section (also referred to in this action as an element) of the
                Act requires SIPs to include enforceable emission limits and other
                control measures, means or techniques, schedules for compliance, and
                other related matters. However, EPA has long interpreted emission
                limits and control measures for attaining the standards as being due
                when nonattainment planning requirements are due.\7\ In the context of
                an infrastructure SIP, EPA is not evaluating the existing SIP
                provisions for this purpose. Instead, EPA is only evaluating whether
                the state's SIP has basic structural provisions for the implementation
                of the NAAQS.
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                 \7\ See, for example, EPA's final rule on ``National Ambient Air
                Quality Standards for Lead,'' 73 FR 66964, 67034 (November 12,
                2008).
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                 In its September 2020 submittal for the 2015 ozone NAAQS, Rhode
                Island cites a number of state laws and regulations in satisfaction of
                element A. Rhode Island DEM statutory authority with respect to air
                quality is set out in RIGL section 23-23-5(12), Powers and duties of
                the director, authorizes the RI DEM Director ``[t]o make, issue, and
                amend rules and regulations . . . for the prevention, control,
                abatement, and limitation of air pollution. . . .'' In addition, this
                section authorizes the Director to ``prohibit emissions, discharges
                and/or releases and . . . require specific control technology.'' EPA
                previously approved RIGL section 23-23-5 into the Rhode Island SIP on
                April 20, 2016 (81 FR 23175).
                 For Element A, Rhode Island cites over 20 state regulations that it
                has adopted to control emissions related to ozone and the ozone
                precursors, nitrogen oxides (NOX) and volatile organic
                compounds (VOCs). Some of these, with their EPA approval citation \8\
                are listed here: No. 9 Air Pollution Control Permits (except for
                sections 9.13, 9.14, 9.15 and Appendix A, which have not been
                submitted) (84 FR 52364;
                [[Page 45941]]
                October 2, 2019) ; No. 11 Petroleum Liquids Marketing and Storage (85
                FR 54924; September 3, 2020); No. 27 Control of Nitrogen Oxide
                Emissions (85 FR 54924; September 3, 2020); No. 37 Rhode Island's Low
                Emissions Vehicle Program (80 FR 50203; August 19, 2015); and No. 45
                Rhode Island Diesel Engine Anti-Idling Program (73 FR 16203; March 27,
                2008).
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                 \8\ The citations reference the most recent EPA approval of the
                stated rule or of revisions to the rule.
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                 EPA proposes that Rhode Island meets the infrastructure
                requirements of section 110(a)(2)(A) for the 2015 ozone NAAQS.
                B. Section 110(a)(2)(B)--Ambient Air Quality Monitoring/Data System
                 This section requires SIPs to provide for establishment and
                operation of appropriate devices, methods, systems, and procedures
                necessary to monitor, compile, and analyze ambient air quality data,
                and to make these data available to EPA upon request. Each year, states
                submit annual air monitoring network plans to EPA for review and
                approval. EPA's review of these annual monitoring plans includes our
                evaluation of whether the state: (i) Monitors air quality at
                appropriate locations throughout the state using EPA-approved Federal
                Reference Methods or Federal Equivalent Method monitors; (ii) submits
                data to EPA's Air Quality System (AQS) in a timely manner; and (iii)
                provides EPA Regional Offices with prior notification of any planned
                changes to monitoring sites or the network plan.
                 Section VI of the 1972 RI SIP specifies requirements for operation
                of the Air Quality monitoring network that RI DEM operates. EPA
                approved the state's 2020 Annual Air Monitoring Network Plan and 5-Year
                Network Assessment on August 4, 2020.\9\ Furthermore, RI DEM populates
                AQS with air quality monitoring data in a timely manner and provides
                EPA with prior notification when considering a change to its monitoring
                network or plan. EPA proposes that Rhode Island meets the
                infrastructure SIP requirements of section 110(a)(2)(B) with respect to
                the 2015 ozone NAAQS.
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                 \9\ EPA's approval letter is included in the docket for this
                action.
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                C. Section 110(a)(2)(C)--Program for Enforcement of Control Measures
                and for Construction or Modification of Stationary Sources
                 States are required to include a program providing for enforcement
                of all SIP measures and for the regulation of construction of new or
                modified stationary sources to meet new source review (NSR)
                requirements under prevention of significant deterioration (PSD) and
                nonattainment new source review (NNSR) programs. Part C of the CAA
                (sections 160-169B) addresses PSD, while part D of the CAA (sections
                171-193) addresses NNSR requirements.
                 The evaluation of each state's submission addressing the
                infrastructure SIP requirements of section 110(a)(2)(C) covers the
                following: (i) Enforcement of SIP measures; (ii) PSD program for major
                sources and major modifications; and (iii) a permit program for minor
                sources and minor modifications.
                Sub-Element 1: Enforcement of SIP Measures
                 Rhode Island's authority for enforcing SIP measures is established
                in RIGL section 23-23-5, which grants the Director of RI DEM general
                enforcement power, inspection and investigative authority, and the
                power to issue administrative orders, among other things. RIGL section
                23-23-5 was approved by EPA on April 20, 2016 (81 FR 23175). In
                addition, RI APCR No. 9, ``Air Pollution Control Permits,'' sets forth
                requirements for new and modified major and minor stationary sources.
                APCR No. 9 includes, among other sections, sections that contain
                specific requirements for new and modified minor sources, specific new
                source review requirements applicable to major stationary sources or
                major modifications located in nonattainment areas, and specific new
                source review requirements applicable to major stationary sources or
                major modifications located in attainment or unclassifiable areas.
                 RSA Chapter 125-C:15, Enforcement, authorizes RI DEM to issue a
                notice of violation or an order of abatement, including a schedule for
                compliance, upon finding that a violation of Chapter 125-C, Air
                Pollution Control, has occurred. Additionally, RSA 125-C:15 I-b, II,
                III, and IV provide for penalties for violations of Chapter 125-C.
                 EPA proposes that Rhode Island meets the enforcement of SIP measure
                requirements of section 110(a)(2)(C) with respect to the 2015 ozone
                NAAQS.
                Sub-Element 2: PSD Program for Major Sources and Major Modifications
                 Prevention of significant deterioration (PSD) applies to new major
                sources or modifications made to major sources for pollutants where the
                area in which the source is located is in attainment of, or is
                unclassifiable with regard to, the relevant NAAQS. EPA interprets the
                CAA as requiring each state to make an infrastructure SIP submission
                for a new or revised NAAQS demonstrating that the air agency has a
                complete PSD permitting program in place satisfying the current
                requirements for all regulated NSR pollutants.
                 The State of Rhode Island's PSD permitting program is established
                in Title 250--Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management,
                Chapter 120--Air Resources, Subchapter 05--Air Pollution Control, Part
                9--Air Pollution Control Permits (Part 9) and contains provisions that
                address applicable requirements for all regulated NSR pollutants,
                including Greenhouse Gases (GHGs). Revisions to the PSD program were
                last approved into the Rhode Island SIP on October 2, 2019 (84 FR
                52364).
                 In determining whether a state has a comprehensive PSD permit
                program, EPA reviews the SIP to ensure that the air agency has a PSD
                permitting program meeting the current requirements for all regulated
                NSR pollutants, including the following EPA rules: ``Final Rule to
                Implement the 8-Hour Ozone National Ambient Air Quality Standard--Phase
                2; Final Rule to Implement Certain Aspects of the 1990 Amendments
                Relating to New Source Review and Prevention of Significant
                Deterioration as they Apply in Carbon Monoxide, Particulate Matter, and
                Ozone NAAQS; ``Implementation of the New Source Review (NSR) Program
                for Particulate Matter Less than 2.5 Micrometers (PM2.5)''
                (the ``2008 NSR Rule''), 73 FR 28321 (May 16, 2008); and ``Prevention
                of Significant Deterioration (PSD) for Particulate Matter Less Than 2.5
                Micrometers (PM2.5)--Increments, Significant Impact Levels
                (SILs) and Significant Monitoring Concentration (SMC)'' (the ``2010 NSR
                Rule''), 75 FR 64864 (October 20, 2010).
                 EPA has previously determined that Rhode Island has a PSD
                permitting program meeting the requirements of these three rules. In
                our proposal on February 29, 2016, regarding Rhode Island's
                infrastructure SIP submittals for the 1997 PM2.5, 2006
                PM2.5, 2008 lead (Pb), 2008 ozone, 2010 nitrogen dioxide
                (NO2), and 2010 sulfur dioxide (SO2) standards,
                we explained how the state's infrastructure SIPs met the requirements
                of the 2008 NSR Rule and most of the requirements of the Phase 2 Rule.
                See proposed rule at 81 FR 10168 and final rule at 81 FR 23175 (April
                20, 2016).
                 In our proposal on July 24, 2019, approving a subsequent Rhode
                Island submittal of revisions to its PSD permit program regulations, we
                explained how Rhode Island satisfied the requirements of the 2010 NSR
                Rule and the remaining requirements of the Phase 2 Rule. See proposed
                rule at 84 FR 35582 (July 24,
                [[Page 45942]]
                2019) and final rule at 84 FR 52364 (October 2, 2019).
                 Based on our rationale contained in the February 2016 and July 2019
                notices collectively explaining how Rhode Island's PSD permitting
                program satisfies the requirements the Phase 2 Rule, the 2008 NSR Rule,
                and the 2010 NSR Rule, we propose to approve Rhode Island's September
                2020 infrastructure SIP submittal for this PSD sub-element of section
                110(a)(2)(C) for the 2015 ozone NAAQS.
                Sub-Element 3: Preconstruction Permitting for Minor Sources and Minor
                Modifications
                 To address the pre-construction regulation of the modification and
                construction of minor stationary sources and minor modifications of
                major stationary sources, an infrastructure SIP submission should
                identify the existing EPA-approved SIP provisions and/or include new
                provisions that govern the minor source pre-construction program that
                regulate emissions of the relevant NAAQS pollutants.
                 EPA last approved revisions to Rhode Island's minor NSR program
                (APCR No. 9) on October 2, 2019 (84 FR 5234). Rhode Island and EPA rely
                on the state's minor NSR program to ensure that new and modified
                sources not captured by the major NSR permitting programs do not
                interfere with attainment and maintenance of the NAAQS, including the
                2015 ozone standard. Therefore, we propose that Rhode Island meets this
                sub-element requirement for a SIP-approved minor NSR permit program for
                the 2015 ozone NAAQS.
                D. Section 110(a)(2)(D)--Interstate Transport
                 One of the structural requirements of section 110(a)(2) is section
                110(a)(2)(D), also known as the ``good neighbor'' provision, which
                generally requires SIPs to contain adequate provisions to prohibit in-
                state emissions activities from having certain adverse air quality
                effects on neighboring states and countries due to the transport of air
                pollution.
                 In particular, section 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(I) requires SIPs to include
                provisions prohibiting any source or other type of emissions activity
                in one state from emitting any air pollutant in amounts that will
                contribute significantly to nonattainment, or interfere with
                maintenance, of the NAAQS in another state. EPA commonly refers to
                these requirements of section 110(a)(2)(D) as Prong 1 (significant
                contribution to nonattainment) and Prong 2 (interference with
                maintenance). A state's SIP submission for Prongs 1 and 2 is also
                referred to as a state's ``Transport SIP.'' Section 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(II)
                requires SIPs to contain adequate provisions to prohibit emissions that
                will interfere with measures included in the applicable implementation
                plan for any other state under part C of the Act to prevent significant
                deterioration of air quality and to protect visibility. EPA commonly
                refers to these requirements as Prong 3 (Prevention of Significant
                Deterioration or PSD) and Prong 4 (Visibility Protection).
                 In today's action, EPA is not evaluating Rhode Island's Transport
                SIP (i.e., Prongs 1 and 2; combined as (D)1 in Table 1 below) or Prong
                4 ((D)3 in Table 1). EPA will address Rhode Island's Transport SIP and
                Prong 4 for the 2015 ozone NAAQS in separate actions. Today's action,
                however, does address Prong 3 (PSD) as well as section 110(a)(2)(D)(ii)
                of the Act, which requires SIPs to contain provisions to ensure
                compliance with sections 126 and 115 of the Act relating to interstate
                and international pollution abatement, respectively.
                Section 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(II)--PSD (Prong 3)
                 To prevent significant deterioration of air quality, this sub-
                element requires SIPs to include provisions that prohibit any source or
                other type of emissions activity in one state from interfering with
                measures that are required in any other state's SIP under Part C of the
                CAA. As explained in the 2013 memorandum,\10\ a state may meet this
                requirement with respect to in-state sources and pollutants that are
                subject to PSD permitting through a comprehensive PSD permitting
                program that applies to all regulated NSR pollutants and that satisfies
                the requirements of EPA's PSD implementation rules. Rhode Island has a
                comprehensive PSD permitting program in place that satisfies
                requirements for all regulated NSR pollutants, as explained above in
                section 110(a)(2)(C).
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                 \10\ Included in the docket for today's action.
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                 For in-state sources not subject to PSD, this requirement can be
                satisfied through an approved nonattainment new source review (NNSR)
                program with respect to any previous NAAQS. EPA approved Rhode Island's
                latest NNSR regulation (APCR No. 9) on October 2, 2019 (84 FR 52364).
                This regulation contains provisions for how the state must treat and
                control sources in nonattainment areas consistent with 40 CFR 51.165,
                or appendix S to 40 CFR 51.
                 Therefore, EPA is proposing that Rhode Island meets the applicable
                infrastructure SIP requirements of section 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(II) related
                to PSD (Prong 3) for the 2015 ozone NAAQS.
                Section 110(a)(2)(D)(ii)--Interstate Pollution Abatement
                 This sub-element requires that each SIP contain provisions
                requiring compliance with requirements of CAA section 126 relating to
                interstate pollution abatement. Section 126(a) requires new or modified
                sources to notify neighboring states of potential impacts from the
                source. The statute does not specify the method by which the source
                should provide the notification. States with SIP-approved PSD programs
                must have a provision requiring such notification by new or modified
                sources.
                 EPA last approved revisions to Rhode Island's PSD program on
                October 2, 2019 (84 FR 52364). This program includes a provision
                requiring Rhode Island to notify neighboring states of RI DEM's
                intention to issue a draft PSD permit or to deny a permit application.
                See APCR No. 9, section 9.16(C)(5).
                 These public-notice requirements are consistent with the Federal
                SIP-approved PSD program's public-notice requirements for affected
                states under 40 CFR 51.166(q). Therefore, we propose to approve Rhode
                Island's compliance with the infrastructure SIP requirements of CAA
                section 126(a) for the 2015 ozone NAAQS. Rhode Island has no
                obligations under any other provision of CAA section 126, and no source
                or sources within the state are the subject of an active finding under
                section 126 with respect to the 2015 ozone NAAQS.
                Section 110(a)(2)(D)(ii)--International Pollution Abatement
                 This sub-element also requires each SIP to contain provisions
                requiring compliance with the applicable requirements of CAA section
                115 relating to international pollution abatement. Section 115
                authorizes the Administrator to require a state to revise its SIP to
                alleviate international transport into another country where the
                Administrator has made a finding with respect to emissions of a NAAQS
                pollutant and its precursors, if applicable. There are no final
                findings under section 115 against Rhode Island with respect to the
                2015 ozone NAAQS. Therefore, EPA is proposing that Rhode Island meets
                the applicable infrastructure SIP requirements of section
                110(a)(2)(D)(ii) related to CAA section 115 for the 2015 ozone NAAQS.
                [[Page 45943]]
                E. Section 110(a)(2)(E)--Adequate Resources
                 Section 110(a)(2)(E)(i) requires each SIP to provide assurances
                that the state will have adequate personnel, funding, and legal
                authority under state law to carry out its SIP. In addition, section
                110(a)(2)(E)(ii) requires each state to comply with the requirements
                for state boards in CAA section 128. Finally, section 110(a)(2)(E)(iii)
                requires that, where a state relies upon local or regional governments
                or agencies for the implementation of its SIP provisions, the state
                retain responsibility for ensuring implementation of SIP obligations
                with respect to relevant NAAQS. Section 110(a)(2)(E)(iii), however,
                does not apply to this action because Rhode Island does not rely upon
                local or regional governments or agencies for the implementation of its
                SIP provisions.
                Sub-Element 1: Adequate Personnel, Funding, and Legal Authority Under
                State Law To Carry Out Its SIP, and Related Issues
                 Rhode Island's infrastructure SIP submittal for the 2015 ozone
                NAAQS states that its air agency has authority and resources to carry
                out its SIP obligations. Rhode Island cites RIGL Section 23-23-5, which
                provides the RI DEM with the legal authority to enforce air pollution
                control requirements. Additionally, this statute provides the DEM with
                the authority to assess preconstruction permit fees and annual
                operating permit fees from air emissions sources and establishes a
                general revenue reserve account within the general fund to finance the
                state clean air programs. EPA approved RIGL section 23-23-5 into the
                Rhode Island SIP on April 20, 2016 (81 FR 23175).
                 Rhode Island's Office of Air Resources (RIOAR) has had a staff of
                25 for fiscal years (FYs) 2019 through 2021. During this period, its
                budget has increased from about $2.9 million to $3.0 million. OAR's air
                laboratory is housed in the Department of Health (RIDOH) and, from FY
                2019 through 2021, has had a staff of 7 and budget of just under $1
                million.\11\ RI DEM staff and operations are funded by the State and
                through EPA grants, including annual funding through CAA sections 103
                and 105 to assist with the costs of implementing programs for the
                prevention and control of air pollution or implementation of national
                primary and secondary ambient air quality standards. Rhode Island also
                has an EPA-approved fee program (APCR No. 28, Operating Permit Fees),
                which is used to support CAA title V program elements such as
                permitting, monitoring, testing, inspections, and enforcement.
                Furthermore, as noted above, RI DEM's budget has been consistent over
                the past number of years and over these years Rhode Island has been
                able to meet its statutory commitments under the Act. Based upon Rhode
                Island's submittal and the additional budget information, EPA proposes
                that Rhode Island meets the infrastructure SIP requirements of this
                sub-element of section 110(a)(2)(E) for the 2015 ozone NAAQS.
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                 \11\ Budget spreadsheet provided to EPA from Rhode Island is
                included in the docket for this action.
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                Sub-Element 2: State Board Requirements Under Section 128 of the CAA
                 Section 110(a)(2)(E)(ii) requires each SIP to contain provisions
                that comply with the state board requirements of section 128(a) of the
                CAA. That provision contains two explicit requirements: (1) That any
                board or body which approves permits or enforcement orders under this
                chapter shall have at least a majority of members who represent the
                public interest and do not derive any significant portion of their
                income from persons subject to permits and enforcement orders under
                this chapter, and (2) that any potential conflicts of interest by
                members of such board or body or the head of an executive agency with
                similar powers be adequately disclosed. Section 128 further provides
                that a state may adopt more stringent conflicts of interest
                requirements and requires EPA to approve any such requirements
                submitted as part of a SIP.
                 In Rhode Island, no board or body approves permits or enforcement
                orders; these are approved by the Director of RI DEM. Thus, with
                respect to this sub-element, Rhode Island is subject only to the
                requirements of paragraph (a)(2) of section 128 of the CAA (regarding
                conflicts of interest).
                 On April 20, 2016, EPA approved Rhode Island Code of Ethics, RIGL
                sections 36-14-1 through 36-14-7 (81 FR 23175). These sections apply to
                state employees and public officials and requires disclosure of
                potential conflicts of interest and provides that ``No person subject
                to this Code of Ethics shall have any interest, financial or otherwise,
                direct or indirect, or engage in any business, employment, transaction,
                or professional activity, or incur any obligation of any nature, which
                is in substantial conflict with the proper discharge of his or her
                duties or employment in the public interest and of his or her
                responsibilities.''
                 EPA proposes that Rhode Island meets the infrastructure SIP
                requirements of section 110(a)(2)(E)(ii) for the 2015 ozone NAAQS.
                F. Section 110(a)(2)(F)--Stationary Source Monitoring System
                 States must establish a system to monitor emissions from stationary
                sources and submit periodic emissions reports. Each plan shall also
                require the installation, maintenance, and replacement of equipment,
                and the implementation of other necessary steps, by owners or operators
                of stationary sources to monitor emissions from such sources. The state
                plan shall also require periodic reports on the nature and amounts of
                emissions and emissions-related data from such sources, and correlation
                of such reports by each state agency with any emission limitations or
                standards established pursuant to this chapter. Lastly, the reports
                shall be available at reasonable times for public inspection.
                 Rhode Island's infrastructure submittal references existing state
                regulations previously approved by EPA that require sources to monitor
                emissions and submit reports and that provide for the correlation of
                emissions data with emission limitations and for the public
                availability of emission data. For example, Rhode Island's submittal
                references RIGL Sec. 23-23-5(16), which authorizes RI DEM to require a
                source to install, maintain, and use air pollution emission monitoring
                devices and to submit periodic reports on the nature and amounts of
                emissions. In addition, under RIGL Sec. 23-23-13 and the Rhode Island
                public records act, see RIGL Title 38, emissions data are made
                available to the public and are not protected as ``trade secret or
                proprietary information.'' With respect to state regulations, APCR No.
                9, ``Air Pollution Control Permits,'' requires emissions testing of
                permitted processes within 180 days of full operation and specifies
                that preconstruction permits issued contain an emissions testing
                section. In addition, APCR No. 6, ``Continuous Emission Monitors,''
                requires certain sources to install, calibrate, operate, and maintain a
                continuous emission monitoring system and to report certain emissions-
                related data to RI DEM. APCR No. 27, ``Control of Nitrogen Oxide
                Emissions,'' listed in Element A, also requires annual emissions
                testing of subject sources and includes specifications for continuous
                emissions monitors. Finally, APCR No. 14, ``Record Keeping and
                Reporting,'' requires emission sources to report emissions and other
                data to RI DEM annually, and provides that information
                [[Page 45944]]
                in certain reports obtained pursuant to APCR No. 14 ``will be
                correlated with applicable emission and other limitations and will be
                available for public inspection.''
                 Consequently, EPA proposes to approve Rhode Island's SIP as
                providing for public availability of emission data and as well as
                authority to release emission data to the public. Therefore, EPA
                proposes that Rhode Island has met the infrastructure SIP requirements
                of section 110(a)(2)(F) for the 2015 ozone NAAQS.
                G. Section 110(a)(2)(G)--Emergency Powers
                 This section requires that a plan provide for state authority
                comparable to that provided to the EPA Administrator in section 303 of
                the CAA, and adequate contingency plans to implement such authority.
                Section 303 of the CAA provides authority to the EPA Administrator to
                seek a court order to restrain any source from causing or contributing
                to emissions that present an ``imminent and substantial endangerment to
                public health or welfare, or the environment.'' Section 303 further
                authorizes the Administrator to issue ``such orders as may be necessary
                to protect public health or welfare or the environment'' in the event
                that ``it is not practicable to assure prompt protection . . . by
                commencement of such civil action.''
                 We propose to find that a combination of state statutes and
                regulations discussed in the Rhode Island's September 2020
                infrastructure submittal provides for authority comparable to that
                given the Administrator in CAA section 303. The statutes and
                regulations are: RIGL Sec. Sec. 10-20, 23-23-16, 23-23.1-5, 23-23.1-7,
                23-23.1-8, 42-17.1-2, and APCR No. 7. In our proposal to approve this
                requirement for Rhode Island's infrastructure SIP submissions for the
                1997 PM2.5, 2006 PM2.5, 2008 lead, 2008 ozone,
                2010 NO2, and 2010 SO2 NAAQS, we explained how
                this combination of authorities provides Rhode Island with authority
                comparable to that in CAA Sec. 303. See 81 FR 10168, 10177 (February
                29, 2016). These statutes and the regulation apply in the same manner
                to ozone precursor emissions as they do to emissions of the other NAAQS
                pollutants. Accordingly, for the reasons contained in our proposal to
                approve this element for the 1997 PM2.5, 2006
                PM2.5, 2008 lead, 2008 ozone, 2010 NO2, and 2010
                SO2 infrastructure SIPs, we propose to find that this
                combination of state statutes and regulations provide for authority
                comparable to that in CAA Sec. 303 for the 2015 ozone infrastructure
                SIP.
                 Section 110(a)(2)(G) also requires that, for any NAAQS, Rhode
                Island have an approved contingency plan (also known as an emergency
                episode plan) for any Air Quality Control Region (AQCR) within the
                state that is classified as Priority I, IA, or II. See 40 CFR
                51.152(c). In general, contingency plans for Priority I, IA, and II
                areas must meet the applicable requirements of 40 CFR part 51, subpart
                H (40 CFR 51.150 through 51.153) (``Prevention of Air Pollution
                Emergency Episodes'') for the relevant NAAQS. A contingency plan is not
                required if the entire state is classified as Priority III for a
                particular pollutant. Id. There is only one AQCR in Rhode Island--the
                Metropolitan Providence Interstate AQCR--and Rhode Island's portion
                thereof is classified as a Priority I area for ozone. See 40 CFR
                52.2071. Consequently, as relevant to this proposed rulemaking action,
                Rhode Island's SIP must contain a contingency plan meeting the specific
                requirements of 40 CFR 51.151 and 51.152 with respect to ozone. Rhode
                Island's submittals cite APCR No. 10, ``Air Pollution Episodes,'' which
                specifies episode criteria for, and measures to be implemented during,
                air pollution alerts, warnings and emergencies to prevent ambient
                pollution concentrations from reaching significant harm levels and is
                very closely modeled on EPA's example regulations for contingency plans
                at 40 CFR part 51, appendix L.
                 As stated in Rhode Island's infrastructure SIP submittals under the
                discussion of public notification (Element J), Rhode Island also posts
                near real-time air quality data, air quality predictions and a record
                of historical data on the RI DEM website. Alerts are sent by email to
                many affected parties, including emissions sources, concerned
                individuals, schools, health and environmental agencies and the media.
                Alerts include information about the health implications of elevated
                pollutant levels and list actions that reduce emissions.
                 In addition, daily forecasted ozone and fine particle levels are
                also made available on the internet through the EPA AirNow and
                EnviroFlash systems. Information regarding these two systems is
                available on EPA's website at www.airnow.gov. Notices are sent out to
                EnviroFlash participants when levels are forecast to exceed the current
                8-hour ozone (or 24-hour PM2.5) standard.
                 These Rhode Island statutes, rules and regulations are consistent
                with the requirements of 40 CFR part 51, subpart H, section 51.150
                through 51.153. EPA proposes that Rhode Island meets the applicable
                infrastructure SIP requirements for section 110(a)(2)(G), including
                contingency plan requirements, for the 2015 ozone NAAQS.
                H. Section 110(a)(2)(H)--Future SIP Revisions
                 This section requires that a state's SIP provide for revision from
                time to time as may be necessary to take account of changes in the
                NAAQS or availability of improved methods for attaining the NAAQS and
                whenever EPA finds that the SIP is substantially inadequate.
                 In 1973, it was determined that Rhode Island's original SIP did not
                fully satisfy section 110(a)(2)(H), and EPA promulgated federal
                regulations to address the gap in the SIP. See 40 CFR 52.2080. Since
                Rhode Island's September 23, 2020, submittal likewise does not address
                the gap in the SIP that led to a disapproval in 1973, EPA proposes to
                find that Rhode Island has not met applicable infrastructure SIP
                requirements for element H with respect to the 2015 ozone NAAQS.
                Accordingly, EPA proposes to disapprove this portion of the state's
                submittal. No further action by EPA or the state is required, however,
                because remedying federal regulations are already in place. Moreover,
                mandatory sanctions under CAA section 179 do not apply because the
                submittal is not required under CAA title I part D nor in response to a
                SIP call under CAA section 110(k)(5).
                I. Section 110(a)(2)(I)--Nonattainment Area Plan or Plan Revisions
                Under Part D
                 Section 110(a)(2)(I) provides that each plan or plan revision for
                an area designated as a nonattainment area shall meet the applicable
                requirements of part D of the CAA. EPA interprets section 110(a)(2)(I)
                to be inapplicable to the infrastructure SIP process because specific
                SIP submissions for designated nonattainment areas, as required under
                part D, are subject to a different submission schedule under subparts 2
                through 5 of part D, extending as far as 10 years following area
                designations for some elements, whereas infrastructure SIP submissions
                are due within three years after adoption or revision of a NAAQS.
                Accordingly, EPA takes action on part D attainment plans through
                separate processes.
                J. Section 110(a)(2)(J)--Consultation With Government Officials; Public
                Notifications; Prevention of Significant Deterioration; Visibility
                Protection
                 Section 110(a)(2)(J) of the CAA requires that each SIP ``meet the
                applicable requirements of section 121 of this title (relating to
                consultation),
                [[Page 45945]]
                section 127 of this title (relating to public notification), and part C
                of this subchapter (relating to PSD of air quality and visibility
                protection).'' The evaluation of the submission from Rhode Island with
                respect to these requirements is described below.
                Sub-Element 1: Consultation With Government Officials
                 Pursuant to CAA section 121, a state must provide a satisfactory
                process for consultation with local governments and Federal Land
                Managers (FLMs) in carrying out its NAAQS implementation requirements.
                RIGL section 23-23-5, which was approved by EPA on April 20, 2016 (81
                FR 23175), authorizes the RI DEM Director ``[t]o advise, consult, and
                cooperate with the cities and towns and other agencies of the state,
                federal government, and other states and interstate agencies, and with
                effective groups in industries in furthering the purposes of this
                chapter.'' In addition, APCR No. 9, Air Pollution Control Permits,
                which was approved into the Rhode Island SIP on October 24, 2013 (78 FR
                63383), with the latest revisions approved on October 2, 2019 (84 FR
                52366), directs RI DEM to notify relevant municipal officials and FLMs,
                among others, of tentative determinations by RI DEM with respect to
                permit applications for major stationary sources and major
                modifications. EPA proposes that Rhode Island meets the infrastructure
                SIP requirements of this portion of section 110(a)(2)(J) for the 2015
                ozone NAAQS.
                Sub-Element 2: Public Notification
                 Pursuant to CAA section 127, states must notify the public if NAAQS
                are exceeded in an area, advise the public of health hazards associated
                with exceedances, and enhance public awareness of measures that can be
                taken to prevent exceedances and of ways in which the public can
                participate in regulatory and other efforts to improve air quality.
                 Rhode Island's APCR No. 10, Air Pollution Episodes, specifies
                criteria for, and measures to be implemented during, air pollution
                alerts, warnings and episodes. The RI DEM website includes near real-
                time air quality data, air quality predictions, and a record of
                historical data. Alerts are sent by email to many affected parties--
                emissions sources, concerned individuals, schools, health and
                environmental agencies and the media--and include information about the
                health implications of elevated pollutant levels and list actions that
                reduce emissions. In addition, Air Quality Data Summaries of the year's
                air quality monitoring results are issued annually. The summaries are
                sent to a mailing list of interested parties and posted on the RI DEM
                website. Rhode Island is also an active partner in EPA's AirNow and
                EnviroFlash air quality alert programs.
                 EPA proposes that Rhode Island meets the infrastructure SIP
                requirements of this portion of section 110(a)(2)(J) with respect to
                the 2015 ozone NAAQS.
                Sub-Element 3: PSD
                 EPA discussed Rhode Island's PSD program in the context of
                infrastructure SIPs in the above paragraphs addressing section
                110(a)(2)(C) and 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(II) and determined that the state
                satisfies the requirements of EPA's PSD implementation rules. Thus, EPA
                proposes that Rhode Island meets the infrastructure SIP requirements of
                this portion of section 110(a)(2)(J) for the 2015 ozone NAAQS.
                Sub-Element 4: Visibility Protection
                 States are subject to visibility and regional haze program
                requirements under part C of the CAA (which includes sections 169A and
                169B). In the event of the establishment of a new NAAQS, however, the
                visibility and regional haze program requirements under part C do not
                change. Thus, as noted in EPA's 2013 memorandum, we find that there is
                no new visibility obligation ``triggered'' under section 110(a)(2)(J)
                when a new NAAQS becomes effective. In other words, the visibility
                protection requirements of section 110(a)(2)(J) are not germane to
                infrastructure SIPs for the 2015 ozone NAAQS. Therefore, we are not
                proposing action on this sub-element.
                K. Section 110(a)(2)(K)--Air Quality Modeling/Data
                 Section 110(a)(2)(K) of the Act requires that a SIP provide for the
                performance of such air quality modeling as the EPA Administrator may
                prescribe for the purpose of predicting the effect on ambient air
                quality of any emissions of any air pollutant for which EPA has
                established a NAAQS, and the submission, upon request, of data related
                to such air quality modeling. EPA has published modeling guidelines at
                40 CFR part 51, appendix W, for predicting the effects of emissions of
                criteria pollutants on ambient air quality. EPA also recommends in the
                2013 memorandum that, to meet section 110(a)(2)(K), a state submit or
                reference the statutory or regulatory provisions that provide the air
                agency with the authority to conduct such air quality modeling and to
                provide such modeling data to EPA upon request.
                 Rhode Island reviews the potential impact of major sources
                consistent with 40 CFR part 51, appendix W, ``Guideline on Air Quality
                Models'' (EPA Guideline). Rhode Island APCR No. 9, ``Air Pollution
                Control Permits,'' requires permit applicants to submit air-quality
                modeling based on applicable air quality models, data bases, and other
                requirements specified in the EPA Guideline to demonstrate impacts of
                new and modified major sources on ambient air quality. Rhode Island
                APCR No. 9 also specifies that the EPA must receive notice of the
                public-comment period that is mandated before a major source permit is
                issued. Modeling data are sent to EPA along with the draft major
                permit. The state also collaborates with the Ozone Transport Commission
                (OTC), and the Mid-Atlantic Regional Air Management Association
                (MARAMA) and EPA in performing any necessary large-scale urban airshed
                modeling for ozone (and PM).
                 EPA proposes that Rhode Island meets the requirements of section
                110(a)(2)(K) for the 2015 ozone NAAQS.
                L. Section 110(a)(2)(L)--Permitting Fees
                 This section requires SIPs to mandate that each major stationary
                source pay permitting fees to cover the costs of reviewing, approving,
                implementing, and enforcing a permit.
                 Section 23-23-5 of the RIGL, which was approved by EPA on April 20,
                2016 (81 FR 23175), provides for the assessment of operating permit
                fees and preconstruction permit fees for air emissions sources. In
                addition, RI DEM's ``Rules and Regulations Governing the Establishment
                of Various Fees'' sets forth permit fee requirements for air emissions
                sources and the legal authority to collect those fees. These rules and
                regulations are promulgated pursuant to RIGL Chapter 23-23, Rhode
                Island's ``Clean Air Act,'' and Chapter 42-35, Administrative
                Procedures.
                 Rhode Island's infrastructure SIP submittals also refer to its
                regulations implementing its operating permit program pursuant to 40
                CFR part 70. Rhode Island's Title V permitting program, APCR No. 28,
                Operating Permit Fees, requires major sources to pay annual operating
                permit fees. EPA's approval of Rhode Island's title V program (APCR No.
                28) became effective on November 30, 2001. See 66 FR 49839 (Oct. 1,
                2001). To gain this approval, Rhode Island demonstrated the ability to
                collect sufficient fees to run the program. The fees collected from
                title V sources are above the presumptive minimum in accordance with 40
                CFR 70.9(b)(2)(i).
                [[Page 45946]]
                 EPA proposes that Rhode Island meets the infrastructure SIP
                requirements of section 110(a)(2)(L) for the 2015 ozone NAAQS.
                M. Section 110(a)(2)(M)--Consultation/Participation by Affected Local
                Entities
                 To satisfy Element M, states must provide for consultation with,
                and participation by, local political subdivisions affected by the SIP.
                Rhode Island's infrastructure submittal references RIGL Sec. 23-23-5,
                which was approved by EPA on April 20, 2016 (81 FR 23175). This state
                law provides for consultation with affected local political
                subdivisions and authorizes the RI DEM Director ``to advise, consult,
                and cooperate with the cities and towns and other agencies of the state
                . . . and other states and interstate agencies . . . in furthering the
                purposes of'' the state's ``Clean Air Act'' (i.e., RIGL chapter 23-23).
                 EPA proposes that Rhode Island meets the infrastructure SIP
                requirements of section 110(a)(2)(M) for the 2015 ozone NAAQS.
                III. Proposed Action
                 EPA is proposing to approve most of the elements of the
                infrastructure SIP submitted by Rhode Island on September 23, 2020, for
                the 2015 ozone NAAQS. Today's action does not include the ``good
                neighbor'' provisions (i.e., section 110(a)(2)(D)(i)), also known as a
                state's Transport SIP, nor does it include section 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(II)
                as it relates to visibility protection (Prong 4). Rhode Island's
                Transport SIP and Prong 4 for the 2015 ozone NAAQS will be addressed in
                future actions.
                 EPA's proposed action regarding each infrastructure SIP requirement
                for the 2015 ozone NAAQS is contained in Table 1 below.
                 Table 1--Proposed Action on Rhode Island's Infrastructure SIP Submittal
                 for the 2015 Ozone NAAQS
                ------------------------------------------------------------------------
                 Element 2015 ozone NAAQS
                ------------------------------------------------------------------------
                (A): Emission limits and other control A.
                 measures.
                (B): Ambient air quality monitoring and data A.
                 system.
                (C)1: Enforcement of SIP measures............ A.
                (C)2: PSD program for major sources and major A.
                 modifications.
                (C)3: Program for minor sources and minor A.
                 modifications.
                (D)1: Contribute to nonattainment/interfere No action.
                 with maintenance of NAAQS.
                (D)2: PSD.................................... A.
                (D)3: Visibility Protection.................. No action.
                (D)4: Interstate Pollution Abatement......... A.
                (D)5: International Pollution Abatement...... A.
                (E)1: Adequate resources..................... A.
                (E)2: State boards........................... A.
                (E)3: Necessary assurances with respect to NA.
                 local agencies.
                (F): Stationary source monitoring system..... A.
                (G): Emergency power......................... A.
                (H): Future SIP revisions.................... D
                (I): Nonattainment area plan or plan +.
                 revisions under part D.
                (J)1: Consultation with government officials. A.
                (J)2: Public notification.................... A.
                (J)3: PSD.................................... A.
                (J)4: Visibility protection.................. +.
                (K): Air quality modeling and data........... A.
                (L): Permitting fees......................... A.
                (M): Consultation and participation by A.
                 affected local entities.
                ------------------------------------------------------------------------
                 In the above table, the key is as follows:
                ------------------------------------------------------------------------
                
                ------------------------------------------------------------------------
                A........................ Approve.
                +........................ Not germane to infrastructure SIPs.
                No action................ EPA is taking no action on this
                 infrastructure requirement.
                NA....................... Not applicable.
                D........................ Disapprove, but no further action required
                 because federal regulations already in
                 place.
                ------------------------------------------------------------------------
                 EPA is soliciting public comments on the issues discussed in this
                proposal or on other relevant matters. These comments will be
                considered before EPA takes final action. Interested parties may
                participate in the Federal rulemaking procedure by submitting comments
                to this proposed rule by following the instructions listed in the
                ADDRESSES section of this Federal Register.
                IV. Statutory and Executive Order Reviews
                 Under the Clean Air Act, the Administrator is required to approve a
                SIP submission that complies with the provisions of the Act and
                applicable Federal regulations. 42 U.S.C. 7410(k); 40 CFR 52.02(a).
                Thus, in reviewing SIP submissions, EPA's role is to approve state
                choices, provided that they meet the criteria of the Clean Air Act.
                Accordingly, this proposed action merely approves state law as meeting
                Federal requirements and does not impose additional requirements beyond
                those imposed by state law. For that reason, this proposed action:
                 Is not a significant regulatory action subject to review
                by the Office of Management and Budget under Executive Orders 12866 (58
                FR 51735, October 4, 1993) and 13563 (76 FR 3821, January 21, 2011);
                 Does not impose an information collection burden under the
                provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act (44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.);
                [[Page 45947]]
                 Is certified as not having a significant economic impact
                on a substantial number of small entities under the Regulatory
                Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.);
                 Does not contain any unfunded mandate or significantly or
                uniquely affect small governments, as described in the Unfunded
                Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (Pub. L. 104-4);
                 Does not have federalism implications as specified in
                Executive Order 13132 (64 FR 43255, August 10, 1999);
                 Is not an economically significant regulatory action based
                on health or safety risks subject to Executive Order 13045 (62 FR
                19885, April 23, 1997);
                 Is not a significant regulatory action subject to
                Executive Order 13211 (66 FR 28355, May 22, 2001);
                 Is not subject to requirements of Section 12(d) of the
                National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act of 1995 (15 U.S.C. 272
                note) because application of those requirements would be inconsistent
                with the Clean Air Act; and
                 Does not provide EPA with the discretionary authority to
                address, as appropriate, disproportionate human health or environmental
                effects, using practicable and legally permissible methods, under
                Executive Order 12898 (59 FR 7629, February 16, 1994).
                 In addition, the SIP is not approved to apply on any Indian
                reservation land or in any other area where EPA or an Indian tribe has
                demonstrated that a tribe has jurisdiction. In those areas of Indian
                country, the rule does not have tribal implications and will not impose
                substantial direct costs on tribal governments or preempt tribal law as
                specified by Executive Order 13175 (65 FR 67249, November 9, 2000).
                List of Subjects in 40 CFR Part 52
                 Environmental protection, Air pollution control, Carbon monoxide,
                Incorporation by reference, Intergovernmental relations, Lead, Nitrogen
                dioxide, Ozone, Particulate matter, Reporting and recordkeeping
                requirements, Sulfur oxides, Volatile organic compounds.
                 Dated: August 11, 2021.
                Deborah Szaro,
                Acting Regional Administrator, EPA Region 1.
                [FR Doc. 2021-17544 Filed 8-16-21; 8:45 am]
                BILLING CODE 6560-50-P
                

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