State Stripped of Power to Enforce Clean Air Law
Maryland has become the first state to be stripped of its power to enforce federal clean air laws.
The state lost its authority because it failed to comply with a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency order mandating more public input in the process of issuing industrial pollution permits.
Maryland will continue handling the paperwork, but the EPA will gain authority over all industry requests for new permits or renewals.
State Environment Secretary Jane T. Nishida said the EPA’s action means industries will face added scrutiny on permit requests.
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