Environmental Problems May Cost Southwest Millions in U.S. Funds

More is at stake in the debate over pollution problems in the Southwest than quality of life and regional reputation. Millions of dollars in federal funds are also on the line.

The federal government has tied compliance with environmental standards to funding for highway projects and for pollution control programs, just as it has tied enforcement of the 55-m.p.h. speed limit to highway money.

Arizona stands to lose $500 million in highway funds if the state doesn’t implement an anti-pollution plan that satisfies regulators.

New Mexico has already lost $320,000 in federal anti-pollution funds because the Environmental Protection Agency found that Albuquerque, which is still debating an auto emissions inspection program, exceeded carbon monoxide standards.

As a result, the state Environmental Improvement Division hasn’t been able to fill seven vacancies. Denise Fort, director of the agency, said the cutoff “had a very deleterious effect on our ability to work (toward a solution).”

EPA spokeswoman Karen Brown said the agency withholds anti-pollution funds because “we would be hesitant to pay to run a program that is not doing the job.”

The agency has also threatened to withhold $23 million in highway project funds for New Mexico if the cleanup steps aren’t taken.

“If you don’t provide highway and other funds, then perhaps there will not be additional growth and that will eliminate any problems that would be caused by additional vehicles,” Brown said.

Both states are taking steps to implement the necessary auto emissions programs.