EPA Will Ease Rules for States on Tougher Car Emission Tests

The Clinton Administration, seeking to blunt a revolt in some states about new air pollution controls, has agreed to ease its requirements for more stringent and costly automobile tailpipe emissions testing.

EPA Administrator Carol Browner promised a group of governors that they would be given more flexibility in meeting the new vehicle-testing regulations as long as overall pollution-reduction levels are met, officials said Friday.

A requirement for more sophisticated testing of automobile tailpipe emissions has been controversial in a number of Northeast states, where motorists have protested the increased cost and inconvenience. Other states, including California, also have sought more flexibility than the EPA previously had been willing to give.

Browner, meeting with seven governors Thursday evening, agreed to provide increased flexibility in the testing program, agency officials said.

“We’re still insisting that you get the 15% reductions (in pollution) that you’re required to get,” said Nancy Sutley, a special assistant to Browner for clean-air issues. She said if states choose not to use the more sophisticated “enhanced” auto emissions testing program, they must find alternative sources of air pollution reduction.