Approval and Promulgation of Implementation Plans; Alaska: Infrastructure Requirements for the 1997 and 2006 Fine Particulate Matter and 2008 Ozone National Ambient Air Quality Standards

As Enacted ( Federal Register)

Cited authorities 12

Cited in

Federal Register, Volume 79 Issue 136 (Wednesday, July 16, 2014)

Federal Register Volume 79, Number 136 (Wednesday, July 16, 2014)

Proposed Rules

Pages 41496-41509

From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office www.gpo.gov

FR Doc No: 2014-16729

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ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY

40 CFR Part 52

EPA-R10-OAR-2014-0140, FRL-9913-83-Region 10

Approval and Promulgation of Implementation Plans; Alaska: Infrastructure Requirements for the 1997 and 2006 Fine Particulate Matter and 2008 Ozone National Ambient Air Quality Standards

AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

ACTION: Proposed rule.

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SUMMARY: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing to approve the Alaska State Implementation Plan (SIP) as meeting specific infrastructure requirements of the Clean Air Act (CAA) for the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) promulgated for fine particulate matter (PM2.5) on July 18, 1997, and October 17, 2006, and for ozone on March 12, 2008. Whenever a new or revised NAAQS is promulgated, the CAA requires states to submit a plan for the implementation, maintenance and enforcement of such NAAQS. The plan is required to address basic program elements, including but not limited to regulatory structure, monitoring, modeling, legal authority, and adequate resources necessary to implement, maintain, and enforce the standards. These elements are referred to as infrastructure requirements. As discussed further below, final action is

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contingent upon the EPA first taking final action on separately-

submitted revisions to the Alaska SIP to reflect changes to the NAAQS and associated Federal prevention of significant deterioration permitting requirements. Final action on those SIP revisions will be addressed in a separate action.

DATES: Comments must be received on or before August 15, 2014.

ADDRESSES: Submit your comments, identified by Docket ID No. EPA-R10-

OAR-2014-0140, by any of the following methods:

www.regulations.gov: Follow the on-line instructions for submitting comments.

Email: R10-Public_Comments@epa.gov.

Mail: Kristin Hall, EPA Region 10, Office of Air, Waste and Toxics (AWT-107), 1200 Sixth Avenue, Suite 900, Seattle, WA 98101.

Hand Delivery: EPA Region 10 Mailroom, 9th Floor, 1200 Sixth Avenue, Suite 900, Seattle, WA 98101. Attention: Kristin Hall, Office of Air, Waste and Toxics, AWT-107. Such deliveries are only accepted during normal hours of operation, and special arrangements should be made for deliveries of boxed information.

Instructions: Direct your comments to Docket ID No. EPA-R10-OAR-

2014-0140. The EPA's policy is that all comments received will be included in the public docket without change and may be made available online at www.regulations.gov, including any personal information provided, unless the comment includes information claimed to be Confidential Business Information (CBI) or other information the disclosure of which is restricted by statute. Do not submit information that you consider to be CBI or otherwise protected through www.regulations.gov or email. The www.regulations.gov Web site is an ``anonymous access'' system, which means the EPA will not know your identity or contact information unless you provide it in the body of your comment. If you send an email comment directly to the EPA without going through www.regulations.gov your email address will be automatically captured and included as part of the comment that is placed in the public docket and made available on the Internet. If you submit an electronic comment, the EPA recommends that you include your name and other contact information in the body of your comment and with any disk or CD-ROM you submit. If the EPA cannot read your comment due to technical difficulties and cannot contact you for clarification, the EPA may not be able to consider your comment. Electronic files should avoid the use of special characters, any form of encryption, and be free of any defects or viruses.

Docket: All documents in the docket are listed in the www.regulations.gov index. Although listed in the index, some information is not publicly available, e.g., CBI or other information the disclosure of which is restricted by statute. Certain other material, such as copyrighted material, is not placed on the Internet and will be publicly available only in hard copy. Publicly available docket materials are available either electronically in www.regulations.gov or in hard copy during normal business hours at the Office of Air, Waste and Toxics, EPA Region 10, 1200 Sixth Avenue, Seattle, WA 98101.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Kristin Hall at (206) 553-6357, hall.kristin@epa.gov, or the above EPA, Region 10 address.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Throughout this document wherever ``we,'' ``us'' or ``our'' is used, it is intended to refer to the EPA. Information is organized as follows:

Table of Contents

Background
CAA Sections 110(a)(1) and (2) Infrastructure Elements
EPA Approach to Review of Infrastructure SIP Submissions
Analysis of the Alaska Submissions
Proposed Action
Statutory and Executive Order Reviews
Background

On July 18, 1997, the EPA promulgated a new 24-hour and a new annual NAAQS for fine particulate matter (PM2.5) (62 FR 38652). More recently, on October 17, 2006, the EPA revised the standards for PM2.5, tightening the 24-hour PM2.5 standard from 65 micrograms per cubic meter (micro/m\3\) to 35 micro/m\3\, and retaining the current annual PM2.5 standard at 15 micro/m\3\ (71 FR 61144). In addition, on March 12, 2008, the EPA revised the levels of the primary and secondary 8-hour ozone standards to 0.075 parts per million (73 FR 16436).

The CAA requires SIPs meeting the requirements of sections 110(a)(1) and (2) be submitted by states within three years after promulgation of a new or revised standard. Sections 110(a)(1) and (2) require states to address basic SIP requirements, so-called ``infrastructure'' elements. To assist states, the EPA issued several guidance documents. On October 2, 2007, the EPA issued guidance to address infrastructure SIP elements for the 1997 ozone and 1997 PM2.5 NAAQS.\1\ On September 25, 2009, the EPA issued guidance to address infrastructure SIP elements for the 2006 24-hour PM2.5 NAAQS.\2\ On September 13, 2013, the EPA issued guidance to address infrastructure SIP elements for multiple pollutants, including the 2008 ozone NAAQS.\3\ As noted in the guidance documents, to the extent an existing SIP already meets the CAA section 110(a)(2) requirements, states may certify that fact via a letter to the EPA.

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\1\ William T. Harnett, Director, Air Quality Policy Division, Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards. ``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.'' Memorandum to EPA Air Division Directors, Regions I-X, October 2, 2007.

\2\ William T. Harnett, Director, Air Quality Policy Division, Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards. ``Guidance on SIP Elements Required Under Sections 110(a)(1) and (2) for the 2006 24-

hour Fine Particle (PM2.5) National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS).'' Memorandum to Regional Air Division Directors, Regions I-X, September 25, 2009.

\3\ Stephen D. Page, Director, Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards. ``Guidance on Infrastructure State Implementation Plan (SIP) Elements under Clean Air Act Sections 110(a)(1) and 110(a)(2).'' Memorandum to EPA Air Division Directors, Regions 1-10, September 13, 2013.

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On July 9, 2012, the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (ADEC) submitted to the EPA a certification that Alaska's SIP meets the infrastructure requirements for multiple NAAQS, including the 1997 ozone, 1997 PM2.5, 2006 PM2.5, 2008 ozone, and 2008 lead NAAQS. The certification included an analysis of Alaska's SIP as it relates to each section of the infrastructure requirements at CAA section 110(a)(2). The State provided notice of public comment and an opportunity for public hearing on the submission from March 4, 2012, through April 10, 2012. Notices were published in the Anchorage Daily News on March 4 and March 5, 2012, the Fairbanks Daily News-Miner on March 5 and March 6, 2012, and the Juneau Empire on March 6, 2012. The State extended the comment period to April 24, 2012, and provided notice of the extension in the same publications. The EPA has evaluated the State's July 9, 2012, submission and determined that the State met the requirements for reasonable notice and public hearing under section 110(a)(2) of the CAA.

Previously, on March 29, 2011, Alaska submitted the ``Alaska Interstate Transport of Pollution SIP'' to address the requirements of CAA section 110(a)(2)(D)(i) for the 2006 PM2.5 and 2008 ozone NAAQS. The State provided notice and an opportunity for public comment on the submission from October 7, 2010, through November 19,

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2010. A notice of public hearing was published in the Anchorage Daily News and the Fairbanks Daily News-Miner on October 9, October 10, and October 11, 2010, and the Peninsula Clarion on October 25, October 26, and October 27, 2010. The State extended the comment period to December 6, 2010, and provided notice of the extension in the same publications. The State held a public hearing on November 16, 2010, in Anchorage, Alaska. The EPA has evaluated the State's March 29, 2011, submission and determined that the State met the requirements for reasonable notice and public hearing under section 110(a)(2) of the CAA.

At this time, the EPA is acting on the Alaska submissions for 110(a)(2) required elements as they relate to the 1997 PM2.5, 2006 PM2.5, and 2008 ozone NAAQS. This action does not address the CAA infrastructure requirements with respect to the 1997 ozone NAAQS, which we approved on October 22, 2012 (77 FR 64425). This action also does not address the CAA infrastructure requirements of the 2008 lead NAAQS, which we intend to address in a separate action. This action also does not address the interstate transport requirements of CAA section 110(a)(2)(D)(i) for the 1997 PM2.5 NAAQS, which we previously approved on October 15, 2008 (73 FR 60955), nor the interstate transport requirements of 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(I) for the 2006 PM2.5 and 2008 ozone NAAQS which we are addressing in a separate action (proposed April 28, 2014, 79 FR 23303). Finally, this action does not address the emergency episode requirements of 110(a)(2)(G) for the 1997 PM2.5 and 2006 PM2.5 NAAQS. We intend to address them in a separate action.
CAA Sections 110(a)(1) and (2) Infrastructure Elements

CAA section 110(a)(1) provides the procedural and timing requirements for SIP submissions after a new or revised NAAQS is promulgated. CAA section 110(a)(2) lists specific elements that states must meet for ``infrastructure'' SIP requirements related to a newly established or revised NAAQS. These requirements include SIP infrastructure elements such as modeling, monitoring, and emissions inventories that are designed to assure attainment and maintenance of the NAAQS. The requirements, with their corresponding CAA subsection, are listed below:

110(a)(2)(A): Emission limits and other control measures.

110(a)(2)(B): Ambient air quality monitoring/data system.

110(a)(2)(C): Program for enforcement of control measures.

110(a)(2)(D): Interstate transport.

110(a)(2)(E): Adequate resources.

110(a)(2)(F): Stationary source monitoring system.

110(a)(2)(G): Emergency power.

110(a)(2)(H): Future SIP revisions.

110(a)(2)(I): Areas designated nonattainment and meet the applicable requirements of part D.

110(a)(2)(J): Consultation with government officials; public notification; and Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD) and visibility protection.

110(a)(2)(K): Air quality modeling/data.

110(a)(2)(L): Permitting fees.

110(a)(2)(M): Consultation/participation by affected local entities.

The EPA's guidance clarified that two elements identified in CAA section 110(a)(2) are not governed by the three year submission deadline of CAA section 110(a)(1) because SIPs incorporating necessary local nonattainment area controls are not due within three years after promulgation of a new or revised NAAQS, but rather due at the time the nonattainment area plan requirements are due pursuant to CAA section 172 and the various pollutant specific subparts 2-5 of part D. These requirements are: (i) Submissions required by CAA section 110(a)(2)(C) to the extent that subsection refers to a permit program as required in part D, title I of the CAA, and (ii) submissions required by CAA section 110(a)(2)(I) which pertain to the nonattainment planning requirements of part D, title I of the CAA. As a result, this action does not address infrastructure elements related to CAA section 110(a)(2)(C) with respect to nonattainment new source review (NSR) or CAA section 110(a)(2)(I). Furthermore, the EPA interprets the CAA section 110(a)(2)(J) provision on visibility as not being triggered by a new NAAQS because the visibility requirements in part C, title I of the CAA are not changed by a new NAAQS.
EPA Approach To Review of Infrastructure SIP Submissions

The EPA is acting upon the SIP submissions from Alaska that address the infrastructure requirements of CAA sections 110(a)(1) and 110(a)(2) for the 1997 PM2.5, 2006 PM2.5, and 2008 ozone NAAQS. The requirement for states to make a SIP submission of this type arises out of CAA section 110(a)(1). Pursuant to section 110(a)(1), states must make SIP submissions ``within 3 years (or such shorter period as the Administrator may prescribe) after the promulgation of a national primary ambient air quality standard (or any revision thereof),'' and these SIP submissions are to provide for the ``implementation, maintenance, and enforcement'' of such NAAQS. The statute directly imposes on states the duty to make these SIP submissions, and the requirement to make the submissions is not conditioned upon the EPA's taking any action other than promulgating a new or revised NAAQS. Section 110(a)(2) includes a list of specific elements that ``each such plan'' submission must address.

The EPA has historically referred to these SIP submissions made for the purpose of satisfying the requirements of CAA sections 110(a)(1) and 110(a)(2) as ``infrastructure SIP'' submissions. Although the term ``infrastructure SIP'' does not appear in the CAA, the EPA uses the term to distinguish this particular type of SIP submission from submissions that are intended to satisfy other SIP requirements under the CAA, such as ``nonattainment SIP'' or ``attainment plan SIP'' submissions to address the nonattainment planning requirements of part D of title I of the CAA, ``regional haze SIP'' submissions required by the EPA rule to address the visibility protection requirements of CAA section 169A, and nonattainment new source review permit program submissions to address the permit requirements of CAA, title I, part D.

Section 110(a)(1) addresses the timing and general requirements for infrastructure SIP submissions, and section 110(a)(2) provides more details concerning the required contents of these submissions. The list of required elements provided in section 110(a)(2) contains a wide variety of disparate provisions, some of which pertain to required legal authority, some of which pertain to required substantive program provisions, and some of which pertain to requirements for both authority and substantive program provisions.\4\ The EPA therefore believes that while the timing requirement in section 110(a)(1) is unambiguous, some of the other statutory provisions are ambiguous. In particular, the EPA believes that the list of required elements for infrastructure SIP submissions provided in section 110(a)(2) contains ambiguities concerning what is required for

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inclusion in an infrastructure SIP submission.

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\4\ For example: Section 110(a)(2)(E)(i) provides that states must provide assurances that they have adequate legal authority under state and local law to carry out the SIP; section 110(a)(2)(C) provides that states must have a SIP-approved program to address certain sources as required by part C of title I of the CAA; and section 110(a)(2)(G) provides that states must have legal authority to address emergencies as well as contingency plans that are triggered in the event of such emergencies.

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The following examples of ambiguities illustrate the need for the EPA to interpret some section 110(a)(1) and section 110(a)(2) requirements with respect to infrastructure SIP submissions for a given new or revised NAAQS. One example of ambiguity is that section 110(a)(2) requires that ``each'' SIP submission must meet the list of requirements therein, while the EPA has long noted that this literal reading of the statute is internally inconsistent and would create a conflict with the nonattainment provisions in part D of title I of the CAA, which specifically address nonattainment SIP requirements.\5\ Section 110(a)(2)(I) pertains to nonattainment SIP requirements and part D addresses when attainment plan SIP submissions to address nonattainment area requirements are due. For example, section 172(b) requires the EPA to establish a schedule for submission of such plans for certain pollutants when the Administrator promulgates the designation of an area as nonattainment, and section 107(d)(1)(B) allows up to two years, or in some cases three years, for such designations to be promulgated.\6\ This ambiguity illustrates that rather than apply all the stated requirements of section 110(a)(2) in a strict literal sense, the EPA must determine which provisions of section 110(a)(2) are applicable for a particular infrastructure SIP submission.

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\5\ See, e.g., ``Rule To Reduce Interstate Transport of Fine Particulate Matter and Ozone (Clean Air Interstate Rule); Revisions to Acid Rain Program; Revisions to the NOx SIP Call; Final Rule,'' 70 FR 25162, at 25163-65 (May 12, 2005) (explaining relationship between timing requirement of section 110(a)(2)(D) versus section 110(a)(2)(I)).

\6\ The EPA notes that this ambiguity within section 110(a)(2) is heightened by the fact that various subparts of part D set specific dates for submission of certain types of SIP submissions in designated nonattainment areas for various pollutants. Note, e.g., that section 182(a)(1) provides specific dates for submission of emissions inventories for the ozone NAAQS. Some of these specific dates are necessarily later than three years after promulgation of the new or revised NAAQS.

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Another example of ambiguity within sections 110(a)(1) and 110(a)(2) with respect to infrastructure SIPs pertains to whether states must meet all of the infrastructure SIP requirements in a single SIP submission, and whether the EPA must act upon such SIP submission in a single action. Although section 110(a)(1) directs states to submit ``a plan'' to meet these requirements, the EPA interprets the CAA to allow states to make multiple SIP submissions separately addressing infrastructure SIP elements for the same NAAQS. If states elect to make such multiple SIP submissions to meet the infrastructure SIP requirements, the EPA can elect to act on such submissions either individually or in a larger combined action.\7\ Similarly, the EPA interprets the CAA to allow it to take action on the individual parts of one larger, comprehensive infrastructure SIP submission for a given NAAQS without concurrent action on the entire submission. For example, the EPA has sometimes elected to act at different times on various elements and sub-elements of the same infrastructure SIP submission.\8\

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\7\ See, e.g., ``Approval and Promulgation of Implementation Plans; New Mexico; Revisions to the New Source Review (NSR) State Implementation Plan (SIP); Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD) and Nonattainment New Source Review (NNSR) Permitting,'' 78 FR 4339 (January 22, 2013) (the EPA's final action approving the structural PSD elements of the New Mexico SIP submitted by the State separately to meet the requirements of the EPA's 2008 PM2.5 NSR rule), and ``Approval and Promulgation of Air Quality Implementation Plans; New Mexico; Infrastructure and Interstate Transport Requirements for the 2006 PM2.5 NAAQS,'' (78 FR 4337) (January 22, 2013) (the EPA's final action on the infrastructure SIP for the 2006 PM2.5 NAAQS).

\8\ On December 14, 2007, the State of Tennessee, through the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation, made a SIP revision to the EPA demonstrating that the State meets the requirements of sections 110(a)(1) and (2). The EPA proposed action for infrastructure SIP elements (C) and (J) on January 23, 2012 (77 FR 3213) and took final action on March 14, 2012 (77 FR 14976). On April 16, 2012 (77 FR 22533) and July 23, 2012 (77 FR 42997), the EPA took separate proposed and final actions on all other section 110(a)(2) infrastructure SIP elements of Tennessee's December 14, 2007 submission.

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Ambiguities within sections 110(a)(1) and 110(a)(2) may also arise with respect to infrastructure SIP submission requirements for different NAAQS. Thus, the EPA notes that not every element of section 110(a)(2) would be relevant, or as relevant, or relevant in the same way, for each new or revised NAAQS. The states' attendant infrastructure SIP submissions for each NAAQS therefore could be different. For example, the monitoring requirements that a state might need to meet in its infrastructure SIP submission for purposes of section 110(a)(2)(B) could be very different for different pollutants, for example because the content and scope of a state's infrastructure SIP submission to meet this element might be very different for an entirely new NAAQS than for a minor revision to an existing NAAQS.\9\

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\9\ For example, implementation of the 1997 PM2.5 NAAQS required the deployment of a system of new monitors to measure ambient levels of that new indicator species for the new NAAQS.

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The EPA notes that interpretation of section 110(a)(2) is also necessary when the EPA reviews other types of SIP submissions required under the CAA. Therefore, as with infrastructure SIP submissions, the EPA also has to identify and interpret the relevant elements of section 110(a)(2) that logically apply to these other types of SIP submissions. For example, section 172(c)(7) requires that attainment plan SIP submissions required by part D have to meet the ``applicable requirements'' of section 110(a)(2). Thus, for example, attainment plan SIP submissions must meet the requirements of section 110(a)(2)(A) regarding enforceable emission limits and control measures and section 110(a)(2)(E)(i) regarding air agency resources and authority. By contrast, it is clear that attainment plan SIP submissions required by part D would not need to meet the portion of section 110(a)(2)(C) that pertains to the PSD program required in part C of title I of the CAA, because PSD does not apply to a pollutant for which an area is designated nonattainment and thus subject to part D planning requirements. As this example illustrates, each type of SIP submission may implicate some elements of section 110(a)(2) but not others.

Given the potential for ambiguity in some of the statutory language of section 110(a)(1) and section 110(a)(2), the EPA believes that it is appropriate to interpret the ambiguous portions of section 110(a)(1) and section 110(a)(2) in the context of acting on a particular SIP submission. In other words, the EPA assumes that Congress could not have intended that each and every SIP submission, regardless of the NAAQS in question or the history of SIP development for the relevant pollutant, would meet each of the requirements, or meet each of them in the same way. Therefore, the EPA has adopted an approach under which it reviews infrastructure SIP submissions against the list of elements in section 110(a)(2), but only to the extent each element applies for that particular NAAQS.

Historically, the EPA has elected to use guidance documents to make recommendations to states for infrastructure SIPs, in some cases conveying needed interpretations on newly arising issues and in some cases conveying interpretations that have already been developed and applied to individual SIP submissions for particular elements.\10\ The EPA most

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recently issued guidance for infrastructure SIPs on September 13, 2013 (2013 Guidance).\11\ The EPA developed this document to provide states with up-to-date guidance for infrastructure SIPs for any new or revised NAAQS. Within this guidance, the EPA describes the duty of states to make infrastructure SIP submissions to meet basic structural SIP requirements within three years of promulgation of a new or revised NAAQS. The EPA also made recommendations about many specific subsections of section 110(a)(2) that are relevant in the context of infrastructure SIP submissions.\12\ The guidance also discusses the substantively important issues that are germane to certain subsections of section 110(a)(2). Significantly, the EPA interprets sections 110(a)(1) and 110(a)(2) such that infrastructure SIP submissions need to address certain issues and need not address others. Accordingly, the EPA reviews each infrastructure SIP submission for compliance with the applicable statutory provisions of section 110(a)(2), as appropriate.

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\10\ The EPA notes, however, that nothing in the CAA requires the EPA to provide guidance or to promulgate regulations for infrastructure SIP submissions. The CAA directly applies to states and requires the submission of infrastructure SIP submissions, regardless of whether or not the EPA provides guidance or regulations pertaining to such submissions. EPA elects to issue such guidance in order to assist states, as appropriate.

\11\ ``Guidance on Infrastructure State Implementation Plan (SIP) Elements under Clean Air Act Sections 110(a)(1) and 110(a)(2),'' Memorandum from Stephen D. Page, September 13, 2013.

\12\ The EPA's September 13, 2013, guidance did not make recommendations with respect to infrastructure SIP submissions regarding section 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(I).

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As an example, section 110(a)(2)(E)(ii) is a required element of section 110(a)(2) for infrastructure SIP submissions. Under this element, a state must meet the substantive requirements of section 128, which pertain to state boards that approve permits or enforcement orders and heads of executive agencies with similar powers. Thus, the EPA reviews infrastructure SIP submissions to ensure that the state's SIP appropriately addresses the requirements of section 110(a)(2)(E)(ii) and section 128. The 2013 Guidance explains the EPA's interpretation that there may be a variety of ways by which states can appropriately address these substantive statutory requirements, depending on the structure of an individual state's permitting or enforcement program (e.g., whether permits and enforcement orders are approved by a multi-member board or by a head of an executive agency). However they are addressed by the state, the substantive requirements of section 128 are necessarily included in the EPA's evaluation of infrastructure SIP submissions because section 110(a)(2)(E)(ii) explicitly requires that the state satisfy the provisions of section 128.

As another example, the EPA's review of infrastructure SIP submissions with respect to the PSD program requirements in sections 110(a)(2)(C), (D)(i)(II), and (J) focuses upon the structural PSD program requirements contained in part C and the EPA's PSD regulations. Structural PSD program requirements include provisions necessary for the PSD program to address all regulated sources and NSR pollutants, including greenhouse gases. By contrast, structural PSD program requirements do not include provisions that are not required under the EPA's regulations at 40 CFR 51.166 but are merely available as an option for the state, such as the option to provide grandfathering of complete permit applications with respect to the 2012 PM2.5 NAAQS. Accordingly, the latter optional provisions are types of provisions the EPA considers irrelevant in the context of an infrastructure SIP action.

For other section 110(a)(2) elements, however, the EPA's review of a state's infrastructure SIP submission focuses on assuring that the state's SIP meets basic structural requirements. For example, section 110(a)(2)(C) includes, inter alia, the requirement that states have a program to regulate minor new sources. Thus, the EPA evaluates whether the state has an EPA-approved minor new source review program and whether the program addresses the pollutants relevant to that NAAQS. In the context of acting on an infrastructure SIP submission, however, the EPA does not think it is necessary to conduct a review of each and every provision of a state's existing minor source program (i.e., already in the existing SIP) for compliance with the requirements of the CAA and EPA's regulations that pertain to such programs.

With respect to certain other issues, the EPA does not believe that an action on a state's infrastructure SIP submission is necessarily the appropriate type of action in which to address possible deficiencies in a state's existing SIP. These issues include: (i) Existing provisions related to excess emissions from sources during periods of startup, shutdown, or malfunction that may be contrary to the CAA and the EPA's policies addressing such excess emissions (``SSM''); (ii) existing provisions related to ``director's variance'' or ``director's discretion'' that may be contrary to the CAA because they purport to allow revisions to SIP-approved emissions limits while limiting public process or not requiring further approval by the EPA; and (iii) existing provisions for PSD programs that may be inconsistent with current requirements of the EPA's ``Final NSR Improvement Rule,'' 67 FR 80186 (December 31, 2002), as amended by 72 FR 32526 (June 13, 2007). Thus, the EPA believes it may approve an infrastructure SIP submission without scrutinizing the totality of the existing SIP for such potentially deficient provisions and may approve the submission even if it is aware of such existing provisions.\13\ It is important to note that the EPA's approval of a state's infrastructure SIP submission should not be construed as explicit or implicit re-approval of any existing potentially deficient provisions that relate to the three specific issues just described.

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\13\ By contrast, the EPA notes that if a state were to include a new provision in an infrastructure SIP submission that contained a legal deficiency, such as a new exemption for excess emissions during SSM events, then the EPA would need to evaluate that provision for compliance against the rubric of applicable CAA requirements in the context of the action on the infrastructure SIP.

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The EPA's approach to review of infrastructure SIP submissions is to identify the CAA requirements that are logically applicable to that submission. The EPA believes that this approach to the review of a particular infrastructure SIP submission is appropriate, because it would not be reasonable to read the general requirements of section 110(a)(1) and the list of elements in 110(a)(2) as requiring review of each and every provision of a state's existing SIP against all requirements in the CAA and the EPA regulations merely for purposes of assuring that the state in question has the basic structural elements for a functioning SIP for a new or revised NAAQS. Because SIPs have grown by accretion over the decades as statutory and regulatory requirements under the CAA have evolved, they may include some outmoded provisions and historical artifacts. These provisions, while not fully up to date, nevertheless may not pose a significant problem for the purposes of ``implementation, maintenance, and enforcement'' of a new or revised NAAQS when the EPA evaluates adequacy of the infrastructure SIP submission. The EPA believes that a better approach is for states and the EPA to focus attention on those elements of section 110(a)(2) of the CAA most likely to warrant a specific SIP revision due to the promulgation of a new or revised NAAQS or other factors.

For example, the EPA's 2013 Guidance gives simpler recommendations with respect to carbon monoxide than other NAAQS pollutants to meet the visibility

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requirements of section 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(II), because carbon monoxide does not affect visibility. As a result, an infrastructure SIP submission for any future new or revised NAAQS for carbon monoxide need only state this fact in order to address the visibility prong of section 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(II).

Finally, the EPA believes that its approach with respect to infrastructure SIP requirements is based on a reasonable reading of sections 110(a)(1) and 110(a)(2) because the CAA provides other avenues and mechanisms to address specific substantive deficiencies in existing SIPs. These other statutory tools allow the EPA to take appropriately tailored action, depending upon the nature and severity of the alleged SIP deficiency. Section 110(k)(5) authorizes the EPA to issue a ``SIP call'' whenever the EPA determines that a state's SIP is substantially inadequate to attain or maintain the NAAQS, to mitigate interstate transport, or to otherwise comply with the CAA.\14\ Section 110(k)(6) authorizes the EPA to correct errors in past actions, such as past approvals of SIP submissions.\15\ Significantly, the EPA's determination that an action on a state's infrastructure SIP submission is not the appropriate time and place to address all potential existing SIP deficiencies does not preclude the EPA's subsequent reliance on provisions in section 110(a)(2) as part of the basis for action to correct those deficiencies at a later time. For example, although it may not be appropriate to require a state to eliminate all existing inappropriate director's discretion provisions in the course of acting on an infrastructure SIP submission, the EPA believes that section 110(a)(2)(A) may be among the statutory bases that EPA relies upon in the course of addressing such deficiency in a subsequent action.\16\

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\14\ For example, the EPA issued a SIP call to Utah to address specific existing SIP deficiencies related to the treatment of excess emissions during SSM events. See ``Finding of Substantial Inadequacy of Implementation Plan; Call for Utah State Implementation Plan Revisions,'' 74 FR 21639 (April 18, 2011).

\15\ The EPA has used this authority to correct errors in past actions on SIP submissions related to PSD programs. See ``Limitation of Approval of Prevention of Significant Deterioration Provisions Concerning Greenhouse Gas Emitting-Sources in State Implementation Plans; Final Rule,'' 75 FR 82536 (December 30, 2010). The EPA has previously used its authority under CAA section 110(k)(6) to remove numerous other SIP provisions that the Agency determined it had approved in error. See, e.g., 61 FR 38664 (July 25, 1996) and 62 FR 34641 (June 27, 1997) (corrections to American Samoa, Arizona, California, Hawaii, and Nevada SIPs); 69 FR 67062 (November 16, 2004) (corrections to California SIP); and 74 FR 57051 (November 3, 2009) (corrections to Arizona and Nevada SIPs).

\16\ See, e.g., the EPA's disapproval of a SIP submission from Colorado on the grounds that it would have included a director's discretion provision inconsistent with CAA requirements, including section 110(a)(2)(A). See, e.g., 75 FR 42342 at 42344 (July 21, 2010) (proposed disapproval of director's discretion provisions); 76 FR 4540 (Jan. 26, 2011) (final disapproval of such provisions).

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Analysis of the Alaska Submissions

The July 9, 2012, submission summarizes ADEC's statutory and regulatory authority to act on behalf of the State of Alaska in any matter pertaining to the state air quality control plan. The submission lists specific provisions of the Alaska Statute (AS) Title 46 Water, Air Energy and Environmental Conservation, Chapter 03 Environmental Conservation and Chapter 14 Air Quality Control; Alaska Administrative Code (AAC) Title 18 Environmental Conservation (18 AAC 50); and the Alaska SIP. The specific sections are listed below, with a discussion of how the Alaska SIP meets the requirements. We note that on May 5, 2014, we proposed to approve a number of revisions to the Alaska SIP, including revisions to update the SIP to reflect changes to the NAAQS and Federal prevention of significant deterioration (PSD) permitting requirements associated with the NAAQS (79 FR 25533). Final action on this infrastructure SIP is contingent upon the EPA first taking final action on the May 5, 2014, proposed approval of those separately submitted revisions to the Alaska SIP to implement the NAAQS and Federal PSD permitting requirements. Final action on those SIP revisions will be addressed in a separate action.

110(a)(2)(A): Emission Limits and Other Control Measures

CAA section 110(a)(2)(A) requires SIPs to include enforceable emission limits and other control measures, means or techniques (including economic incentives such as fees, marketable permits, and auctions of emissions rights), as well as schedules and timetables for compliance, as may be necessary or appropriate to meet the applicable requirements of the CAA.

State submission: The July 9, 2012, submission cites Alaska environmental and air quality laws set forth at AS 46.03 and AS 46.14 and State regulations set forth at 18 AAC 50. AS 46.03.020 ``Powers of the department'' provides authority for ADEC to adopt regulations providing for control, prevention, and abatement of air, water, land or subsurface land pollution. AS 46.03.860 ``Inspection warrant'' provides authority for ADEC to investigate actual or suspected sources of pollution or contamination, or to ascertain compliance or noncompliance. AS 46.14.010 ``Emission control regulations'' provides authority for ADEC to adopt regulations establishing ambient air quality standards, emission standards, or exemptions to implement a state air quality control program. AS 46.14.240 ``Permit administration fees'' and AS 46.14.250 ``Emission fees'' provide authority to assess permit administration fees and emission fees to sources. AS 46.14.515 ``Inspection'' provides authority to inspect regulated sources, including records, emissions units, monitoring equipment or methods, and to sample any emissions the source is required to sample.

The regulations cited by ADEC include statewide ambient air quality standards, major and minor permits, emission limits for specific sources, transportation conformity and fees. The relevant regulations are listed below:

18 AAC 50.005: Purpose and Applicability of Chapter.

18 AAC 50.010: Ambient Air Quality Standards.

18 AAC 50.035: Documents, Procedures, and Methods Adopted by Reference.

18 AAC 50.040: Federal Standards Adopted by Reference.

18 AAC 50.045: Prohibitions.

18 AAC 50.050: Incinerator Emission Standards.

18 AAC 50.055: Industrial Processes and Fuel Burning Equipment.

18 AAC 50.060: Pulp Mills.

18 AAC 50.065: Open Burning.

18 AAC 50.070: Marine Vessel Visible Emission Standards.

18 AAC 50.075: Wood Fired Heating Devices Visible Emission Standards.

18 AAC 50.201: Ambient Air Quality Investigation.

18 AAC 50.302: Construction Permits.

18 AAC 50.306: Prevention of Significant Deterioration Permits.

18 AAC 50.345: Construction and Operating Permits: Standard Permit Conditions.

18 AAC 50.400-18 AAC 50.499: User Fees.

18 AAC 50.502: Minor Permits for Air Quality Protection.

18 AAC 50.540: Minor Permit Application.

18 AAC 50.542: Minor Permit Review and Issuance.

18 AAC 50.544: Minor Permits: Content.

18 AAC 50.700-18 AAC 50.735: Conformity.

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18 AAC 50.990: Definitions.

EPA analysis: Alaska generally regulates emissions of PM2.5 and its precursors, and ozone precursors through its SIP-approved major and minor new source review (NSR) permitting programs, in addition to other rules described below. We note that the EPA does not consider SIP requirements triggered by the nonattainment area mandates in part D, title I of the CAA to be governed by the submission deadline of CAA section 110(a)(1). Regulations and other control measures for purposes of attainment planning under part D, title I of the CAA are due on a different schedule than infrastructure SIPs.

Alaska's major NSR program generally incorporates the Federal PSD and nonattainment NSR programs by reference into the Alaska SIP. The EPA most recently proposed approval of revisions to Alaska's major and minor NSR permitting programs on May 5, 2014 (79 FR 25533). After finalizing the May 5, 2014, proposed action, the Alaska SIP will incorporate by reference Federal PSD requirements at 40 CFR 52.21 and 40 CFR 51.166 revised as of July 1, 2011.

With respect to Alaska's minor NSR permitting program, at 18 AAC 50.502-18 AAC 50.544, we have determined that the program regulates minor sources for purposes of the 1997 and 2006 PM2.5 NAAQS and the 2008 ozone NAAQS. In addition to Alaska's major and minor NSR permitting programs, Alaska's SIP contains rules that establish various controls on emissions of particulate matter and its precursors. These controls include incinerator emission standards, emission limits for specific industrial processes and fuel burning equipment, emission limits for pulp mills, open burning controls, and visible emission limits on marine vessel emissions and wood-fired heating devices.

Based on the foregoing, we are proposing to approve the Alaska SIP as meeting the requirements of CAA section 110(a)(2)(A) for the 1997 PM2.5, 2006 PM2.5, and 2008 ozone NAAQS. Final action is contingent upon the EPA first taking final action on the May 5, 2014, proposed approval of revisions to the Alaska SIP to reflect changes to the NAAQS and Federal PSD permitting requirements.

In this action, we are not proposing to approve or disapprove any existing state provisions with regard to excess emissions during startup, shutdown, or malfunction (SSM) of operations at a facility. The EPA believes that a number of states may have SSM provisions that are contrary to the CAA and existing EPA guidance \17\ and the EPA plans to address such state regulations in the future. In the meantime, we encourage any state having a deficient SSM provision to take steps to correct it as soon as possible.

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\17\ For further description of the EPA's SSM Policy, see, e.g., a memorandum dated September 20, 1999, titled, ``State Implementation Plans: Policy Regarding Excess Emissions During Malfunctions, Startup, and Shutdown,'' from Steven A. Herman, Assistant Administrator for Enforcement and Compliance Assurance, and Robert Perciasepe, Assistant Administrator for Air and Radiation. Also, the EPA issued a proposed action on February 12, 2013, titled ``State Implementation Plans: Response to Petition for Rulemaking; Findings of Substantial Inadequacy; and SIP Calls to Amend Provisions Applying to Excess Emissions During Periods of Startup, Shutdown and Malfunction.'' This rulemaking responds to a petition for rulemaking filed by the Sierra Club that concerns SSM provisions in 39 states' SIPs (February 22, 2013, 78 FR 12460).

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In addition, we are not proposing to approve or disapprove any existing State rules with respect to director's discretion or variance provisions. The EPA believes that a number of states may have such provisions that are contrary to the CAA and existing EPA guidance (November 24, 1987, 52 FR 45109), and the EPA plans to take action in the future to address such state regulations. In the meantime, we encourage any state having a director's discretion or variance provision that is contrary to the CAA and EPA guidance to take steps to correct the deficiency as soon as possible.

110(a)(2)(B): Ambient Air Quality Monitoring/Data System

CAA section 110(a)(2)(B) requires SIPs to include provisions to provide for establishment and operation of ambient air quality monitors, collecting and analyzing ambient air quality data, and making these data available to the EPA upon request.

State submission: The July 9, 2012, submission references Alaska statutory and regulatory authority to conduct ambient air monitoring investigations. AS 46.03.020 ``Powers of the department'' paragraph (5) provides authority to undertake studies, inquiries, surveys, or analyses essential to the accomplishment of the purposes of ADEC. AS 46.14.180 ``Monitoring'' provides authority to require sources to monitor emissions and ambient air quality to demonstrate compliance with applicable permit program requirements. 18 AAC 50.201 ``Ambient Air Quality Investigation'' provides authority to require a source to do emissions testing, reduce emissions, and apply controls to sources.

The submission also describes Memoranda of Understanding between ADEC and the Municipality of Anchorage (MOA) and Fairbanks North Star Borough (FNSB) to operate air quality control programs in their respective jurisdictions. ADEC's Air Non-Point Mobile Source Program and Air Monitoring & Quality Assurance Program work with MOA and FNSB to prepare Alaska's annual ambient air monitoring network plan, the most recent of which is the 2012 Alaska Air Monitoring Network Plan. Alaska collects and validates State and Local Air Monitoring Stations and Special Purpose Monitoring ambient air quality monitoring data and electronically reports these data to the EPA through the Air Quality System (AQS) on a quarterly basis. ADEC's revised ``Quality Assurance Project Plan for the State of Alaska Air Monitoring and Quality Assurance Program'' was adopted by reference into the State Air Quality Control Plan on October 29, 2010.

EPA analysis: A comprehensive air quality monitoring plan, intended to meet requirements of 40 CFR part 58 was submitted by Alaska to the EPA on January 18, 1980 (40 CFR 52.70) and approved by the EPA on April 15, 1981. This air quality monitoring plan has been subsequently updated and approved by the EPA on March 10, 2014. This plan includes, among other things, the locations for ozone and particulate matter monitoring. Alaska makes this plan available for public review at http://www.dec.state.ak.us/air/am/index.htm. Based on the foregoing, we are proposing to approve the Alaska SIP as meeting the requirements of CAA section 110(a)(2)(B) for the 1997 PM2.5, 2006 PM2.5, and 2008 ozone NAAQS.

110(a)(2)(C): Program for Enforcement of Control Measures

CAA section 110(a)(2)(C) requires states to include a program providing for enforcement of all SIP measures and the regulation of construction of new or modified stationary sources, including a program to meet PSD and nonattainment NSR requirements.

State submission: The July 9, 2012, submission refers to ADEC's statutory authority to regulate stationary sources via an air permitting program established in AS 46.14 ``Air Quality Control,'' Article 01 ``General Regulations and Classifications'' and Article 02 ``Emission Control Permit Program.'' The submission states that ADEC's PSD/NSR programs were approved by the EPA on August 14, 2007 (72 FR 45378). The submission references the following regulations:

18 AAC 50.045: Prohibitions.

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18 AAC 50.302: Construction Permits.

18 AAC 50.306: Prevention of Significant Deterioration Permits.

18 AAC 50.345: Construction and Operating Permits: Standard Permit Conditions.

18 AAC 50.508: Minor Permits Requested by the Owner or Operator.

18 AAC 50.540: Minor Permit: Application.

18 AAC 50.542: Minor Permit Review and Issuance.

18 AAC 50.542(c): Screening Ambient Air Quality Analysis.

The submission states that a violation of the prohibitions in the regulations above, or any permit condition, can result in civil actions (AS 46.03.760 ``Civil action for pollution; damages''), administrative penalties (AS 46.03.761 ``Administrative penalties''), or criminal penalties (AS 46.03.790 ``Criminal penalties''). In addition, Alaska refers to regulations pertaining to compliance orders and enforcement proceedings found at 18 AAC Chapter 95 ``Administrative Enforcement.'' Finally, AS 46.03.820 ``Emergency Powers'' provides ADEC with emergency order authority where there is an imminent and present danger to health or welfare.

EPA analysis: With respect to the requirement to have a program providing for enforcement of all SIP measures, we are proposing to find that Alaska statute provides ADEC with authority to enforce air quality regulations, permits, and orders promulgated pursuant to AS 46.03 and AS 46.14. ADEC staffs and maintains an enforcement program to ensure compliance with SIP requirements. ADEC has emergency order authority when there is an imminent or present danger to health or welfare or potential for irreversible or irreparable damage to natural resources or the environment. Enforcement cases may be referred to the State Department of Law. Therefore, we are proposing to approve the Alaska SIP as meeting the requirements of CAA section 110(a)(2)(C) related to enforcement for the 1997 PM2.5, 2006 PM2.5, and 2008 ozone NAAQS.

To generally meet the requirements of CAA section 110(a)(2)(C) with respect to the regulation of construction of new or modified stationary sources, the State is required to have PSD, nonattainment NSR, and minor NSR permitting programs adequate to implement the 1997 PM2.5, 2006 PM2.5, and 2008 ozone NAAQS. As explained above, we are not evaluating nonattainment related provisions, such as the nonattainment NSR program required by part D, title I of the CAA.

The EPA originally approved Alaska's PSD/NSR program on February 16, 1995 (60 FR 8943), and we most recently proposed revisions on May 5, 2014 (79 FR 25533). These revisions, among other things, update the Alaska PSD program for fine particulate matter implementation in attainment and unclassifiable areas. Previously on February 9, 2011, we approved a revision to the Alaska SIP to provide authority to implement the PSD permitting program with respect to greenhouse gas emissions (76 FR 7116). Alaska's PSD program generally incorporates by reference the Federal PSD program requirements at 40 CFR 52.21. In some cases, ADEC adopted provisions of 40 CFR 51.166 rather than the comparable provisions of 40 CFR 52.21 because 40 CFR 51.166 was a better fit for a SIP-approved PSD program.

Upon finalization of the May 5, 2014, proposed approval of revisions to the Alaska PSD program, the State's Federally-approved SIP will incorporate by reference PSD requirements at 40 CFR 52.21 and 40 CFR 51.166 revised as of July 1, 2011. Therefore, we are proposing to approve the Alaska SIP as meeting the requirements of CAA section 110(a)(2)(C) with respect to PSD for the 1997 PM2.5, 2006 PM2.5, and 2008 ozone NAAQS. Final action is contingent upon the EPA first taking final action on the May 5, 2014, proposed approval of revisions to the Alaska SIP to reflect changes to the NAAQS and Federal PSD permitting requirements.

We note that on January 4, 2013, the U.S. Court of Appeals in the District of Columbia, in Natural Resources Defense Council v. EPA, 706 F.3d 428 (D.C. Cir.), issued a judgment that remanded two of the EPA's rules implementing the 1997 PM2.5 NAAQS, including the ``Implementation of New Source Review (NSR) Program for Particulate Matter Less Than 2.5 Micrometers (PM2.5),'' (73 FR 28321, May 16, 2008) (2008 PM2.5 NSR Implementation Rule). The court ordered the EPA to ``repromulgate these rules pursuant to Subpart 4 consistent with this opinion.'' Id. at 437. Subpart 4 of part D, title I of the CAA establishes additional provisions for particulate matter nonattainment areas. The 2008 PM2.5 NSR Implementation Rule addressed by the court's decision promulgated NSR requirements for implementation of PM2.5 in both nonattainment areas (nonattainment NSR) and attainment/unclassifiable areas (PSD). As the requirements of subpart 4 only pertain to nonattainment areas, the EPA does not consider the portions of the 2008 PM2.5 NSR Implementation Rule that address requirements for PM2.5 attainment and unclassifiable areas to be affected by the court's opinion. Moreover, the EPA does not anticipate the need to revise any PSD requirements promulgated in the 2008 PM2.5 NSR Implementation Rule in order to comply with the court's decision. Accordingly, the EPA's proposed approval of elements 110(a)(2)(C), (D)(i)(II), and (J), with respect to the PSD requirements, does not conflict with the court's opinion. The EPA interprets the CAA section 110(a)(1) and (2) infrastructure submissions due three years after adoption or revision of a NAAQS to exclude nonattainment area requirements, including requirements associated with a nonattainment NSR program. Instead, these elements are typically referred to as nonattainment SIP or attainment plan elements, which are due by the dates statutorily prescribed under subparts 2 through 5 under part D, extending as far as ten years following designations for some elements.

In addition, on January 22, 2013, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia, in Sierra Club v. EPA, 703 F.3d 458 (D.C. Cir. 2013), issued a judgment that, inter alia, vacated the provisions adding the PM2.5 Significant Monitoring Concentration (SMC) to the Federal regulations, at 40 CFR 51.166(i)(5)(i)(c) and 52.21(i)(5)(i)(c), that were promulgated as part of the ``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); Final Rule,'' (75 FR 64864, October 10, 2010) (2010 PSD PM2.5 Implementation Rule). In its decision, the court held that the EPA did not have the authority to use SMCs to exempt permit applicants from the statutory requirement in section 165(e)(2) of the CAA that ambient monitoring data for PM2.5 be included in all PSD permit applications. Thus, although the PM2.5 SMC was not a required element of a state's PSD program, were a state PSD program that contains such a provision to use that provision to issue new permits without requiring ambient PM2.5 monitoring data, such application of the vacated SMC would be inconsistent with the court's opinion and the requirements of section 165(e)(2) of the CAA.

This decision also, at the EPA's request, vacated and remanded to the EPA for further consideration the portions of the 2010 PSD PM2.5 Implementation Rule that revised 40 CFR 51.166 and 40 CFR 52.21 related to

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Significant Impact Levels (SILs) for PM2.5. The EPA requested this vacatur and remand of two of the three provisions in the EPA regulations that contain SILs for PM2.5, because the wording of these two SIL provisions (40 CFR 51.166(k)(2) and 40 CFR 52.21(k)(2)) is inconsistent with the explanation of when and how SILs should be used by permitting authorities that we provided in the preamble to the Federal Register publication when we promulgated these provisions. The third SIL provision (40 CFR 51.165(b)(2)) was not vacated and remains in effect. The court's decision does not affect the PSD increments for PM2.5 promulgated as part of the 2010 PSD PM2.5 Implementation Rule.

We note that the EPA recently amended its regulations to remove the vacated PM2.5 SILs and SMC provisions from PSD regulations on December 9, 2013 (78 FR 73698). In addition, the EPA will initiate a separate rulemaking in the future regarding the PM2.5 SILs that will address the court's remand. In the meantime, we are advising states to begin preparations to remove the vacated provisions from state PSD regulations.

Because of the vacatur of the EPA regulations as they relate to the PM2.5 SILs and SMC, and the EPA's December 9, 2013, rulemaking action, Alaska withdrew the rule revisions that would have implemented these vacated provisions. Please see our proposed action on May 5, 2014 (79 FR 25533). Therefore, in this action we are proposing to approve the Alaska SIP as meeting the requirements of CAA section 110(a)(2)(C), (D)(i)(II) and (J) as those elements relate to a comprehensive PSD program.

Turning to the minor NSR requirement, we have determined that the Alaska minor NSR program regulates minor sources for purposes of the 1997 PM2.5, 2006 PM2.5, and 2008 ozone NAAQS. Based on the foregoing, we are proposing to approve the Alaska SIP as meeting the requirements of CAA section 110(a)(2)(C) for the 1997 PM2.5, 2006 PM2.5, and 2008 ozone NAAQS. Final action is contingent upon the EPA first taking final action on the May 5, 2014, proposed approval of revisions to the Alaska SIP to reflect changes to the NAAQS and Federal PSD permitting requirements.

110(a)(2)(D): Interstate Transport

CAA section 110(a)(2)(D)(i) requires state SIPs to include provisions prohibiting any source or other type of emissions activity in one state from contributing significantly to nonattainment, or interfering with maintenance of the NAAQS in another state (CAA section 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(I)). Further, this section requires state SIPs to include provisions prohibiting any source or other type of emissions activity in one state from interfering with measures required to prevent significant deterioration (PSD) of air quality, or from interfering with measures required to protect visibility (i.e. measures to address regional haze) in any state (CAA section 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(II)). As noted above, this action also does not address the requirements of CAA section 110(a)(2)(D)(i) for the 1997 PM2.5 NAAQS which we previously approved on October 15, 2008 (73 FR 60955). In addition, this action does not address the requirements of 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(I) for the 2006 PM2.5 and 2008 ozone NAAQS, which we are addressing in a separate action (proposed April 28, 2014, 79 FR 23303). In this action, we are proposing to approve the Alaska SIP as meeting the requirements of CAA section 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(II) for the 2006 PM2.5 and 2008 ozone NAAQS, and CAA section 110(a)(2)(D)(ii) for the 1997 PM2.5, 2006 PM2.5, and 2008 ozone NAAQS.

State submission: On March 29, 2011, Alaska submitted the ``Alaska Interstate Transport of Pollution SIP'' to address interstate transport requirements for multiple NAAQS, including the 2006 PM2.5 and 2008 ozone NAAQS. For purposes of CAA section 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(II), the submission referenced the State's SIP-approved PSD program and the State's Regional Haze Plan. As a result of the State's analysis and consultation, Alaska concluded that emissions of fine particulate matter and its precursors and ozone precursors from sources in Alaska do not interfere with other states' efforts to prevent significant air quality degradation and protect visibility.

EPA analysis: As noted above, this action also does not address the requirements of CAA section 110(a)(2)(D)(i) for the 1997 PM2.5 NAAQS which we previously approved on October 15, 2008 (73 FR 60955). In addition, this action does not address the requirements of 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(I) for the 2006 PM2.5 and 2008 ozone NAAQS, which we are addressing in a separate action (proposed April 28, 2014, 79 FR 23303). In this action, we are proposing to approve the Alaska SIP as meeting the requirements of CAA section 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(II) for the 2006 PM2.5 and 2008 ozone NAAQS, and CAA section 110(a)(2)(D)(ii) for the 1997 PM2.5, 2006 PM2.5, and 2008 ozone NAAQS.

CAA section 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(II) requires state SIPs to contain adequate provisions prohibiting emissions which will interfere with any other state's required measures to prevent significant deterioration (PSD) of its air quality (prong 3), and adequate provisions prohibiting emissions which will interfere with any other state's required measures to protect visibility (prong 4).

To address whether emissions from sources in Alaska interfere with any other state's required measures to prevent significant deterioration of air quality, the March 29, 2011, and July 9, 2012, submissions referenced the State's Federally-approved PSD program. The EPA originally approved Alaska's PSD program on February 16, 1995 (60 FR 8943), and most recently proposed approval of revisions on May 5, 2014 (79 FR 25533). Upon finalization of our May 5, 2014, proposed approval of revisions to the Alaska PSD program, the Alaska SIP will incorporate by reference Federal PSD requirements as of July 1, 2011. We believe that our proposed approval of element 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(II) is not affected by recent court vacaturs of EPA PSD implementing regulations. Please see our discussion at section 110(a)(2)(C). Therefore, we are proposing to approve the Alaska SIP as meeting the requirements of CAA section 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(II) with respect to PSD (prong 3) for the 2006 PM2.5 and 2008 ozone NAAQS. Final action is contingent upon the EPA first taking final action on the May 5, 2014, proposed approval of revisions to the Alaska SIP to reflect changes to the NAAQS and Federal PSD permitting requirements.

To address whether emissions from sources in Alaska interfere with any other state's required measures to protect visibility, Alaska's submissions reference the Alaska Regional Haze SIP, which was submitted to the EPA on March 29, 2011. The Alaska Regional Haze SIP addresses visibility impacts across states within the region. On February 14, 2013, the EPA approved the Alaska Regional Haze SIP, including the requirements for best available retrofit technology (78 FR 10546).

The EPA believes, as noted in the September 13, 2013, infrastructure guidance, that with respect to the CAA section 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(II) visibility sub-element, where a state's regional haze SIP has been approved as meeting all current obligations, a state may rely upon those provisions in support of its demonstration that it satisfies the requirements of CAA section 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(II) as it relates to visibility. Because the Alaska Regional Haze SIP was found to meet Federal requirements, we are proposing to approve the Alaska SIP as meeting the

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requirements of CAA section 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(II) as it applies to visibility for the 2006 PM2.5 and 2008 ozone NAAQS (prong 4).

Interstate and International Transport Provisions

CAA section 110(a)(2)(D)(ii) requires SIPs to include provisions insuring compliance with the applicable requirements of CAA sections 126 and 115 (relating to interstate and international pollution abatement). Specifically, CAA section 126(a) requires new or modified major sources to notify neighboring states of potential impacts from the source.

State submission: The July 9, 2012, submission references the State's Federally-approved PSD program. The submission also references SIP revisions submitted by ADEC for purposes of implementing PM2.5 requirements in the Alaska PSD program.

EPA analysis: The EPA originally approved Alaska's PSD program on February 16, 1995 (60 FR 8943), and most recently proposed approval of revisions on May 5, 2014 (79 FR 25533). In general, ADEC incorporates by reference the Federal PSD rules at 40 CFR 52.21. In some cases, ADEC adopted provisions of 40 CFR 51.166, rather than the comparable provisions of 40 CFR 52.21, because 40 CFR 51.166 was a better fit for a SIP-approved PSD program.

At 18 AAC 50.306(b), Alaska's Federally-approved SIP incorporates by reference the general provisions of 40 CFR 51.166(q)(2) to describe the public participation procedures for PSD permits, including requiring notice to states whose lands may be affected by the emissions of sources subject to PSD. As a result, Alaska's PSD regulations provide for notice consistent with the requirements of the EPA PSD program. Alaska also has no pending obligations under section 115 or 126(b) of the CAA. Therefore, we are proposing to approve the Alaska SIP as meeting the requirements of CAA section 110(a)(2)(D)(ii) for the 1997 PM2.5, 2006 PM2.5, and 2008 ozone NAAQS. Final action is contingent upon the EPA first taking final action on the May 5, 2014, proposed approval of revisions to the Alaska SIP to reflect changes to the NAAQS and Federal PSD permitting requirements.

110(a)(2)(E): Adequate Resources

CAA section 110(a)(2)(E) requires each state to provide (i) necessary assurances that the state will have adequate personnel, funding, and authority under state law to carry out the SIP (and is not prohibited by any provision of Federal or state law from carrying out the SIP or portion thereof), (ii) requirements that the state comply with the requirements respecting state boards under CAA section 128 and (iii) necessary assurances that, where the state has relied on a local or regional government, agency, or instrumentality for the implementation of any SIP provision, the state has responsibility for ensuring adequate implementation of such SIP provision.

State submission: The July 9, 2012, submission states that ADEC maintains adequate personnel, funding, and authority to implement the SIP. The submission refers to AS 46.14.030 ``State Air Quality Control Plan'' which provides ADEC statutory authority to act for the state and adopt regulations necessary to implement the State air plan. The submission also references 18 AAC 50.030 ``State Air Quality Control Plan'' which provides regulatory authority to implement and enforce the SIP.

With respect to CAA section 110(a)(2)(E)(ii), the submission states that Alaska's regulations on ``conflict of interest'' are found in Title 2-Administration, Chapter 50 Alaska Public Offices Commission: Conflict of Interest, Campaign Disclosure, Legislative Financial Disclosure, and Regulations of Lobbying (2 AAC 50.010--2 AAC 50.920). Regulations concerning financial disclosure are found in Title 2, Chapter 50, Article 1--Public Official Financial Disclosure. There are no state air quality boards in Alaska, however, the ADEC commissioner, as an appointed official and the head of an executive agency, is required to file a financial disclosure statement annually by March 15th of each year with the Alaska Public Offices Commission (APOC). These disclosures are publicly available through APOC's Anchorage office. Alaska's Public Officials Financial Disclosure Forms and links to Alaska's financial disclosure regulations can be found at the APOC Web site: http://doe.alaska.gov/apoc/home.html. Additional links to Alaska's ethics statutes and regulations are found at http://law.alaska.gov/doclibrary/ethics.html.

With respect to CAA section 110(a)(2)(E)(iii) and assurances that the state has responsibility for ensuring adequate implementation of the plan where the state has relied on local or regional government agencies, the submission states that ADEC insures local programs have adequate resources and documents this in the appropriate SIP section. Statutory authority for establishing local air pollution control programs is found at AS 46.14.400 ``Local air quality control programs.''

The submission also states that ADEC provides technical assistance and regulatory oversight to the Municipality of Anchorage (MOA), Fairbanks North Star Borough (FNSB) and other local jurisdictions to ensure that the State Air Quality Control Plan and SIP objectives are satisfactorily carried out. ADEC has a Memorandum of Understanding with the MOA and FNSB that allows them to operate air quality control programs in their respective jurisdictions. The South Central Clean Air Authority has been established to aid the MOA and the Matanuska-Susitna Borough in pursuing joint efforts to control emissions and improve air quality in the air-shed common to the two jurisdictions. In addition, ADEC indicates the department works closely with locals on nonattainment plans.

EPA analysis: We are proposing to find that the Alaska SIP meets the adequate personnel, funding and authority requirements of CAA section 110(a)(2)(E)(i). Alaska receives sections 103 and 105 grant funds from the EPA and provides state matching funds necessary to carry out SIP requirements. For purposes of CAA section 110(a)(2)(E)(ii), we previously approved Alaska's conflict of interest disclosure and ethics regulations as meeting the requirements of CAA section 128 on October 22, 2012 (77 FR 64427). In addition, we are proposing to find that the State has provided necessary assurances that, where the State has relied on a local or regional government, agency, or instrumentality for the implementation of any SIP provision, the State has responsibility for ensuring adequate implementation of the SIP with respect to the 1997 PM2.5, 2006 PM2.5, and 2008 ozone NAAQS as required by CAA section 110(a)(2)(E)(iii). Therefore we are proposing to approve the Alaska SIP as meeting the requirements of CAA section 110(a)(2)(E) for the 1997 PM2.5, 2006 PM2.5, and 2008 ozone NAAQS.

110(a)(2)(F): Stationary Source Monitoring System

CAA section 110(a)(2)(F) requires (i) 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, (ii) periodic reports on the nature and amounts of emissions and emissions-related data from such sources, and (iii) correlation of such reports by the state agency with any emission limitations or standards established pursuant to the CAA, which

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reports shall be available at reasonable times for public inspection.

State submission: The July 9, 2012, submission states that ADEC has general statutory authority to regulate stationary sources via an air permitting program which includes permit reporting requirements, completeness determinations, administrative actions, and stack source monitoring requirements. The submission states ADEC has regulatory authority to determine compliance with these statutes via information requests and ambient air quality investigations. Monitoring protocols and test methods for stationary sources have been adopted by reference including the Federal reference and interpretation methods for particulate matter.

The submission references the State's Federally-approved PSD program originally approved on February 16, 1995 (60 FR 8943) and more recently approved on August 14, 2007 (72 FR 45378). Ambient air quality and meteorological data that are collected for PSD purposes by stationary sources are reported to ADEC on a quarterly and annual basis.

The submission refers to the following statutory and regulatory provisions which provide authority and requirements for source emissions monitoring, reporting, and correlation with emission limits or standards:

AS 46.14.140: Emission control permit program regulations.

AS 46.14.180: Monitoring.

18 AAC 50.035: Documents, Procedures, and Methods Adopted by Reference.

18 AAC 50.040: Federal Standards Adopted by Reference.

18 AAC 50.200: Information Requests.

18 AAC 50.201: Ambient Air Quality Investigation.

18 AAC 50.220: Enforceable test methods.

18 AAC 50.306: Prevention of Significant Deterioration Permits.

18 AAC 50.345: Construction and Operating Permits: Standard Permit Conditions.

EPA analysis: The Alaska SIP establishes compliance requirements for sources subject to major and minor source permitting to monitor emissions, keep and report records, and collect ambient air monitoring data. 18 AAC 50.200 ``Information Requests'' provides ADEC authority to issue information requests to an owner, operator, or permittee for purposes of ascertaining compliance. 18 AAC 50.201 ``Ambient Air Quality Investigations'' provides authority to require an owner, operator, or permittee to evaluate the effect emissions from the source have on ambient air quality. In addition, 18 AAC 50.306 ``Prevention of Significant Deterioration Permits'' and 18 AAC 50.544 ``Minor Permits: Content'' provide for establishing permit conditions to require the permittee to install, use and maintain monitoring equipment, sample emissions, provide source test reports, monitoring data, emissions data, and information from analysis, keep records and make periodic reports on process operations and emissions. This information is made available to the public through public processes outlined in these SIP-

approved rules.

Additionally, the State is required to submit emissions data to the EPA for purposes of the National Emissions Inventory (NEI). The NEI is the EPA's central repository for air emissions data. The EPA published the Air Emissions Reporting Rule (AERR) on December 5, 2008, which modified the requirements for collecting and reporting air emissions data (73 FR 76539). The AERR shortened the time states had to report emissions data from 17 to 12 months, giving states one calendar year to submit emissions data. All states are required to submit a comprehensive emissions inventory every three years and report emissions for certain larger sources annually through the EPA's online Emissions Inventory System. States report emissions data for the six criteria pollutants and their associated precursors--nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide, ammonia, lead, carbon monoxide, particulate matter, and volatile organic compounds. Many states also voluntarily report emissions of hazardous air pollutants. The EPA compiles the emissions data, supplementing it where necessary, and releases it to the general public through the Web site http://www.epa.gov/ttn/chief/eiinformation.html.

Based on the above analysis, we are proposing to approve the Alaska SIP as meeting the requirements of CAA section 110(a)(2)(F) for the 1997 PM2.5, 2006 PM2.5, and 2008 ozone NAAQS.

110(a)(2)(G): Emergency Episodes

CAA section 110(a)(2)(G) requires states to provide for authority to address activities causing imminent and substantial endangerment to public health, including contingency plans to implement the emergency episode provisions in their SIPs.

State submission: The July 9, 2012, submission cites AS 46.03.820 ``Emergency powers'' which provides ADEC with emergency order authority where there is an imminent or present danger to the health or welfare of the people of the state or would result in or be likely to result in irreversible or irreparable damage to the natural resources or environment. The submission also refers to18 AAC 50.245 ``Air Episodes and Advisories'' which authorizes ADEC to declare an air alert, air warning, or air advisory to notify the public and prescribe and publicize curtailment action. The submission states that ADEC is working to update this rule for purposes of PM2.5.

The three major municipalities in Alaska (Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Juneau) also have ordinances, codes, or regulations that enable them to declare emergencies in the case of poor air quality due to forest fires, volcanoes, wood smoke or other air quality problem. ADEC is working with the FNSB to develop an Emergency Episode Contingency Plan for PM2.5 for the FNSB nonattainment area as outlined in 40 CFR subpart H--Prevention of Air Pollution Emergency Episodes, and in Appendix L to subpart 51 ``Example Regulations for Prevention of Air Pollution Emergency Episodes.'' ADEC personnel remain in close contact with each municipality when an air emergency is declared, assisting with air monitoring and analysis, and implementing safety and control measures, as needed.

EPA analysis: Section 303 of the CAA provides authority to the EPA Administrator to restrain any source from causing or contributing to emissions which present an ``imminent and substantial endangerment to public health or welfare, or the environment.'' The EPA finds that AS 46.03.820 ``Emergency Powers'' provides emergency order authority comparable to CAA Section 303. We also find that Alaska's emergency episode rule at 18 AAC 50.245 ``Air Episodes and Advisories,'' most recently approved by the EPA on August 14, 2007 (72 FR 45378), is consistent with the requirements of 40 CFR part 51 subpart H (prevention of air pollution emergency episodes, sections 51.150 through 51.153) for purposes of the 2008 ozone NAAQS. Because Alaska's SIP revision for PM2.5 emergency episode planning is in development and has not yet been submitted to the EPA, we are deferring action on this element for purposes of the 1997 and 2006 PM2.5 NAAQS. We will address the requirements in a separate action.

Based on the foregoing, we are proposing to approve the Alaska SIP as meeting the requirements of CAA section 110(a)(2)(G) for the 2008 ozone NAAQS.

Page 41507

110(a)(2)(H): Future SIP Revisions

CAA section 110(a)(2)(H) requires that SIPs provide for revision of such plan (i) from time to time as may be necessary to take account of revisions of such national primary or secondary ambient air quality standard or the availability of improved or more expeditious methods of attaining such standard, and (ii), except as provided in paragraph 110(a)(3)(C), whenever the Administrator finds on the basis of information available to the Administrator that the SIP is substantially inadequate to attain the NAAQS which it implements or to otherwise comply with any additional requirements under the CAA.

State submission: The July 9, 2012, submission refers to statutory authority to adopt regulations in order to implement the CAA and the state air quality control program at AS 46.03.020(10)(A) ``Powers of the Department'' and AS 46.14.010(a) ``Emission Control Regulations.'' The submission also refers to regulatory authority to implement provisions of the CAA at 18 AAC 50.010 ``Ambient Air Quality Standards.'' The submission affirms that ADEC regularly update the Alaska SIP as new NAAQS are promulgated by the EPA.

EPA analysis: As cited above, the Alaska SIP provides for revisions, and in practice, Alaska regularly submits SIP revisions to the EPA to take into account revisions to the NAAQS and other Federal regulatory changes. On May 5, 2014, the EPA proposed to approve numerous revisions to the Alaska SIP, including updates to Alaska's rules to reflect recent Federal changes to the NAAQS and permitting requirements (79 FR 25533). We previously approved revisions to the Alaska SIP on August 9, 2013 (78 FR 48611), May 9, 2013 (78 FR 27071) and January 7, 2013 (78 FR 900). We are proposing to approve the Alaska SIP as meeting the requirements of section 110(a)(2)(H) for the 1997 PM2.5, 2006 PM2.5, and 2008 ozone NAAQS.

110(a)(2)(I): Nonattainment Area Plan Revision Under Part D

EPA analysis: There are two elements identified in CAA section 110(a)(2) not governed by the three-year submission deadline of CAA section 110(a)(1), because SIPs incorporating necessary local nonattainment area controls are not due within three years after promulgation of a new or revised NAAQS, but are rather due at the time of the nonattainment area plan requirements pursuant to section 172 and the various pollutant specific subparts 2n x dash5 of part D. These requirements are: (i) Submissions required by CAA section 110(a)(2)(C) to the extent that subsection refers to a permit program as required in part D, title I of the CAA, and (ii) submissions required by CAA section 110(a)(2)(I) which pertain to the nonattainment planning requirements of part D, title I of the CAA. As a result, this action does not address infrastructure elements related to CAA section 110(a)(2)(C) with respect to nonattainment NSR or CAA section 110(a)(2)(I).

110(a)(2)(J): Consultation With Government Officials

CAA section 110(a)(2)(J) requires states to provide a process for consultation with local governments and Federal Land Managers carrying out NAAQS implementation requirements pursuant to Section 121. CAA section 110(a)(2)(J) further requires states to notify the public if NAAQS are exceeded in an area and to enhance public awareness of measures that can be taken to prevent exceedances. Lastly, CAA section 110(a)(2)(J) requires states to meet applicable requirements of part C, title I of the CAA related to prevention of significant deterioration and visibility protection.

State submission: The July 9, 2012, submission refers to statutory authority to consult and cooperate with officials of local governments, state and Federal agencies, and non-profit groups found at AS 46.030.020 ``Powers of the department'' paragraphs (3) and (8). The submission states that municipalities and local air quality districts seeking approval for a local air quality control program shall enter into a cooperative agreement with ADEC according to AS 46.14.400 ``Local air quality control programs'' paragraph (d). ADEC can adopt new CAA regulations only after a public hearing as per AS 46.14.010 ``Emission control regulations'' paragraph (a). In addition, the submission states that public notice and public hearing regulations for SIP submission and air quality discharge permits are found at 18 AAC 15.050 and 18 AAC 15.060. Finally, the submission also references the Federally-approved Alaska PSD program originally approved on February 16, 1995 (60 FR 8943), and Alaska's Regional Haze SIP submitted to the EPA on March 29, 2011.

EPA analysis: The EPA finds that the Alaska SIP contains provisions for consulting with government officials as specified in CAA section 121, including the Alaska rules for major source permitting. Alaska's PSD program provides opportunity and procedures for public comment and notice to appropriate Federal, state and local agencies. We most recently proposed approval of revisions to the Alaska PSD program on May 5, 2014 (79 FR 25533). In addition, the EPA approved the Alaska rules that define transportation conformity consultation on December 29, 1999 (64 FR 72940). Finally, on February 14, 2013, we approved the Alaska Regional Haze SIP (78 FR 10546).

ADEC routinely coordinates with local governments, states, Federal land managers and other stakeholders on air quality issues including transportation conformity and regional haze, and provides notice to appropriate agencies related to permitting actions. Alaska regularly participates in regional planning processes including the Western Regional Air Partnership which is a voluntary partnership of states, tribes, Federal land managers, local air agencies and the EPA whose purpose is to understand current and evolving regional air quality issues in the West. Therefore, we are proposing to approve the Alaska SIP as meeting the requirements of CAA section 110(a)(2)(J) for consultation with government officials for the 1997 PM2.5, 2006 PM2.5, and 2008 ozone NAAQS.

Section 110(a)(2)(J) also requires the public be notified if NAAQS are exceeded in an area and to enhance public awareness of measures that can be taken to prevent exceedances. ADEC is a partner in the EPA's AIRNOW and Enviroflash Air Quality Alert programs, which provide air quality information to the public for five major air pollutants regulated by the CAA: ground-level ozone, particulate matter, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide. Alaska also provides real-time air monitoring information to the public on the ADEC air quality Web site at http://dec.alaska.gov/applications/air/envistaweb/, in addition to air advisory information. During the summer months, the Fairbanks North Star Borough prepares a weekly Air Quality forecast for the Fairbanks area. The forecast is on their Web site (http://co.fairbanks.ak.us/airquality/).

We are therefore proposing to approve the Alaska SIP as meeting the requirements of CAA section 110(a)(2)(J) for public notification for the 1997 PM2.5, 2006 PM2.5, and 2008 ozone NAAQS.

Turning to the requirement in CAA section 110(a)(2)(J) that the SIP meet the applicable requirements of part C of title I of the CAA, we have evaluated this requirement in the context of CAA section 110(a)(2)(C) with respect to permitting. The EPA originally approved Alaska's PSD program on

Page 41508

February 16, 1995 (60 FR 8943), and most recently proposed to approve revisions on May 5, 2014 (79 FR 25533). Alaska's PSD program generally incorporates by reference the Federal PSD program requirements at 40 CFR 52.21. In some cases, ADEC adopted provisions of 40 CFR 51.166, rather than the comparable provisions of 40 CFR 52.21, because 40 CFR 51.166 was a better fit for a SIP-approved PSD program. Upon finalization of our May 5, 2014 proposed approval, the State's Federally-approved SIP will incorporate by reference PSD requirements at 40 CFR 52.21 and 40 CFR 51.166 revised as of July 1, 2011. We are therefore proposing to approve the Alaska SIP as meeting the requirements of CAA section 110(a)(2)(J) for PSD for the 1997 PM2.5, 2006 PM2.5, and 2008 ozone NAAQS. Final action is contingent upon the EPA first taking final action on the May 5, 2014, proposed approval of revisions to the Alaska SIP to reflect changes to the NAAQS and Federal PSD permitting requirements. We note that we believe that our proposed approval of element 110(a)(2)(J) with respect to PSD is not affected by recent court vacaturs of the EPA's PSD implementing regulations. Please see our discussion above regarding section 110(a)(2)(C).

With respect to the applicable requirements for visibility protection, the EPA recognizes that states are subject to visibility and regional haze program requirements under part C of the CAA. 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 we find that there is no new applicable requirement related to visibility triggered under CAA section 110(a)(2)(J) when a new NAAQS becomes effective.

Based on the analysis above, we are proposing to approve the Alaska SIP as meeting the requirements of CAA section 110(a)(2)(J) for the 1997 PM2.5, 2006 p.m.2.5, and 2008 ozone NAAQS. Final action is contingent upon the EPA first taking final action on the May 5, 2014, proposed approval of revisions to the Alaska SIP to reflect changes to the NAAQS and Federal PSD permitting requirements.

110(a)(2)(K): Air Quality and Modeling/Data

CAA section 110(a)(2)(K) requires that SIPs provide for (i) the performance of such air quality modeling as the Administrator may prescribe for the purpose of predicting the effect on ambient air quality of any emissions of any air pollutant for which the Administrator has established a national ambient air quality standard, and (ii) the submission, upon request, of data related to such air quality modeling to the Administrator.

State submission: The July 9, 2012, submission states that air quality modeling is regulated under 18 AAC 50.215(b) ``Ambient Air Quality Analysis Methods.'' Estimates of ambient concentrations and visibility impairment must be based on applicable air quality models, databases, and other requirements specified in the ``EPA's Guideline on Air Quality Models'' which is adopted by reference in 18 AAC 50.040 ``Federal Standards Adopted by Reference.'' Baseline dates and maximum allowable increases are found in Table 2 and Table 3, respectively, at 18 AAC 50.020 ``Baseline Dates and Maximum Allowable Increases.''

EPA analysis: On May 5, 2014, we proposed to approve revisions to 18 AAC 50.215 ``Ambient Air Quality Analysis Methods'' and 18 AAC 50.040(f) ``Federal Standards Adopted by Reference'' (79 FR 25533). After finalizing our May 5, 2014, action, 18 AAC 50.040(f) ``Federal Standards Adopted by Reference'' will incorporate by reference the EPA regulations at 40 CFR Part 51, Appendix W (Guidelines on Air Quality Models) revised as of July 1, 2011. In addition, as an example of Alaska's modeling capacity, the State submitted the Fairbanks Carbon Monoxide Maintenance Plan to the EPA on June 21, 2004, supported by air quality modeling. The maintenance plan and supporting modeling was approved by the EPA as a SIP revision on July 27, 2004 (69 FR 44605). Therefore, we are proposing to approve the Alaska SIP as meeting the requirements of CAA Section 110(a)(2)(K) for the 1997 PM2.5, 2006 PM2.5, and 2008 ozone NAAQS.

110(a)(2)(L): Permitting Fees

CAA section 110(a)(2)(L) requires SIPs to require each major stationary source to pay permitting fees to cover the cost of reviewing, approving, implementing and enforcing a permit.

State submission: The July 9, 2012, submission states that ADEC's statutory authority to assess and collect permit fees is established in AS 46.14.240 ``Permit Administration Fees'' and AS 46.14.250 ``Emission Fees.'' The permit fees for title V stationary sources are assessed and collected by the Air Permits Program according to 18 AAC 50, Article 4. ADEC is required to evaluate emission fee rates at least every four years and provide a written evaluation of the findings (AS 46.14.250(g); 18 AAC 50.410). The submission states that ADEC's most recent emission fee evaluation report was completed in October 2010 and that the next emission fee review is scheduled for 2014.

EPA analysis: The EPA fully approved Alaska's title V program on July 26, 2001 (66 FR 38940) with an effective data of September 24, 2001. While Alaska's operating permit program is not formally approved into the SIP, it is a legal mechanism the State can use to ensure that ADEC has sufficient resources to support the air program, consistent with the requirements of the SIP. Before the EPA can grant full approval, a state must demonstrate the ability to collect adequate fees. The Alaska title V program included a demonstration the state will collect a fee from title V sources above the presumptive minimum in accordance with 40 CFR 70.9(b)(2)(i). In addition, Alaska regulations at 18 AAC 50.306(d)(2) and 18 AAC 50.311(d)(2) require fees for purposes of major NSR permitting as specified in 18 AAC 50.400 through 18 AAC 50.499. Therefore, we are proposing to conclude that Alaska has satisfied the requirements of CAA section 110(a)(2)(L) for the 1997 PM2.5, 2006 PM2.5, and 2008 ozone NAAQS.

110(a)(2)(M): Consultation/Participation by Affected Local Entities

CAA section 110(a)(2)(M) requires states to provide for consultation and participation in SIP development by local political subdivisions affected by the SIP.

State submission: The July 9, 2012, submission states that ADEC has authority to consult and cooperate with officials and representatives of any organization in the state; and persons, organization, and groups, public and private using, served by, interested in, or concerned with the environment of the state. Alaska refers to AS 46.030.020 ``Powers of the department'' paragraphs (3) and (8) which provides authority to ADEC to consult and cooperate with affected state and local entities. In addition, AS 46.14.400 ``Local air quality control programs'' paragraph (d) provides authority for local air quality control programs and requires cooperative agreements between ADEC and local air quality control programs that specify the respective duties, funding, enforcement responsibilities, and procedures.

EPA analysis: The EPA finds that the Alaska provisions cited above provide for local and regional authorities to participate and consult in the SIP development process. Therefore we are proposing to approve the Alaska SIP as meeting the requirements of CAA

Page 41509

section 110(a)(2)(M) for the 1997 PM2.5, 2006 PM2.5, and 2008 ozone NAAQS.
Proposed Action

We are proposing to approve the Alaska SIP as meeting the following CAA section 110(a)(2) infrastructure elements for the 1997 PM2.5, 2006 PM2.5, and 2008 ozone NAAQS: (A), (B), (C), (D)(ii), (E), (F), (H), (J), (K), (L), and (M). We are also proposing to approve the Alaska SIP as meeting the requirements of CAA section 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(II) as it applies to prevention of significant deterioration and visibility for the 2006 PM2.5 and 2008 ozone NAAQS. In addition, we are proposing to approve the Alaska SIP as meeting the requirements of CAA section 110(a)(2)(G) for the 2008 ozone NAAQS. As discussed above, final action is contingent upon the EPA first taking final action on the May 5, 2014, proposed approval of revisions to the Alaska SIP to reflect changes to the NAAQS and Federal PSD permitting requirements (79 FR 25533).
Statutory and Executive Order Reviews

Under the CAA, 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, the EPA's role is to approve state choices, provided that they meet the criteria of the CAA. Accordingly, this proposed action merely approves the state's law as meeting Federal requirements and does not impose additional requirements beyond those imposed by the state's 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 Order 12866 (58 FR 51735, October 4, 1993);

Does not impose an information collection burden under the provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act (44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.);

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 it does not involve technical standards; and

Does not provide the 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, this rule does not have tribal implications as specified by Executive Order 13175 (65 FR 67249, November 9, 2000), because the SIP is not approved to apply in Indian country located in Alaska, and the EPA notes that it will not impose substantial direct costs on tribal governments or preempt tribal law.

List of Subjects in 40 CFR Part 52

Environmental protection, Air pollution control, Incorporation by reference, Intergovernmental relations, Lead, Nitrogen dioxide, Ozone, Particulate matter, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, Sulfur oxides, Volatile organic compounds.

Authority: 42 U.S.C. 7401 et seq.

Dated: July 3, 2014.

Michelle L. Pirzadeh,

Acting Regional Administrator, Region 10.

FR Doc. 2014-16729 Filed 7-15-14; 8:45 am

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Approval and Promulgation of Implementation Plans; Alaska: Infrastructure Requirements for the 1997 and 2006 Fine Particulate Matter and 2008 Ozone National Ambient Air Quality Standards

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