Nation IN BRIEF : WASHINGTON, D.C. : Tougher Clean-Air Rules Win Backing

Congressional negotiators agreed to lower limits on industrial air pollution in smoggy areas, under rules that would apply to many small businesses previously exempted. The agreement raised hope that differences between House and Senate versions of clean-air legislation can be resolved this session. Passage of either bill would bring about the first major revision of federal air pollution laws in 13 years. Sources, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said negotiators backed House provisions that would require even minor industrial polluters to install emissions controls.