Environmental Protection Agency July 2015 – Federal Register Recent Federal Regulation Documents
Results 1 - 50 of 63
Notice of Request for New Information Collection
In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. Chapter 35), this notice announces the Agricultural Marketing Service's (AMS) intention to request approval, from the Office of Management and Budget, for NEW information collection for the Fruit and Vegetable Specialty Crops Inspection Division.
Clarification of United States Antitrust Laws, Immunity, and Liability Under Marketing Order Programs
This rule implements an amendment to the general regulations for federal fruit, vegetable, and specialty crop marketing agreements and marketing orders that would accentuate the applicability of U.S. antitrust laws to marketing order programs' domestic and foreign activities. This action advises marketing order board and committee members and personnel of the restrictions, limitations, and liabilities imposed by those laws.
National Organic Program (NOP); Sunset 2015 Amendments to the National List
This proposed rule would address recommendations submitted to the Secretary of Agriculture (Secretary) by the National Organic Standards Board (NOSB) following their October 2014 meeting. These recommendations pertain to the 2015 Sunset Review of substances on the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) National List of Allowed and Prohibited Substances (National List). Consistent with the recommendations from the NOSB, this proposed rule would remove two non- organic agricultural substances from the National List for use in organic handling, fortified cooking winesmarsala wine and sherry wine. This proposed rule would also remove two listings for synthetic substances allowed for use in organic crop production on the National List, streptomycin and tetracycline, as their use exemptions expired on October 21, 2014.
Re-Charter of the Fruit and Vegetable Industry Advisory Committee
The USDA intends to renew the Fruit and Vegetable Industry Advisory Committee (Committee) for a two-year term from 2015-2017. The purpose of the Committee is to examine the full spectrum of issues faced by the fruit and vegetable industry and provide suggestions and ideas to the Secretary of Agriculture on how USDA can tailor its programs to better meet the fruit and vegetable industry's needs. The Committee is necessary and is in the public interest.
Oranges, Grapefruit, Tangerines, and Tangelos Grown in Florida; Secretary's Decision and Referendum Order on Proposed Amendments to Marketing Order No. 905
This decision proposes amendments to Marketing Order No. 905 (order), which regulates the handling of oranges, grapefruit, tangerines, and tangelos (citrus) grown in Florida, and provides growers with the opportunity to vote in a referendum to determine if they favor the changes. The amendments are based on proposals made by the Citrus Administrative Committee (Committee), which is responsible for local administration of the order, and is comprised of growers and handlers. These amendments would: authorize regulation of new varieties and hybrids of citrus fruit; authorize the regulation of intrastate shipments of fruit; revise the process for redistricting the production area; change the term of office and tenure requirements for Committee members; authorize mail balloting procedures for Committee membership nominations; increase the capacity of financial reserve funds; authorize pack and container requirements for domestic shipments and authorize different regulations for different markets; eliminate the use of separate acceptance statements in the nomination process; and require handlers to register with the Committee. These proposed amendments are intended to improve the operation and administration of the order.
Notice of Opportunity To Comment on an Analysis of the Greenhouse Gas Emissions Attributable to Production and Transport of Cotton (Gossypium spp.) Seed Oil for Use in Biofuel Production
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is inviting comment on its analysis of the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions attributable to the production and transport of Gossypium spp. seed oil (``cottonseed oil'') feedstock for use in making biofuels such as biodiesel, renewable diesel, and jet fuel. This document explains EPA's analysis of the feedstock production and transport-related components of the lifecycle GHG emissions of biofuel made from cottonseed oil, including both direct and indirect agricultural and forestry sector emissions. This notice also describes how EPA may apply this analysis in the future to determine whether biofuels produced from cottonseed oil meet the necessary GHG reductions required for qualification as renewable fuel under the Renewable Fuel Standard program. Based on this analysis, we anticipate that biofuels produced from cottonseed oil could qualify as biomass-based diesel or advanced biofuel if typical fuel production process technologies are used.
Receipt of Test Data Under the Toxic Substances Control Act
EPA is announcing its receipt of test data submitted pursuant to a test rule issued by EPA under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). As required by TSCA, this document identifies each chemical substance and/or mixture for which test data have been received; the uses or intended uses of such chemical substance and/or mixture; and describes the nature of the test data received. Each chemical substance and/or mixture related to this announcement is identified in Unit I. under SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION.
Approval and Promulgation of Implementation Plans and Designation of Areas for Air Quality Planning Purposes; Tennessee; Redesignation of the Knoxville 2008 8-Hour Ozone Nonattainment Area to Attainment
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is taking four separate final actions related to a state implementation plan (SIP) revision submitted by the State of Tennessee, through the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC), Division of Air Pollution Control, on November 14, 2014, for the Knoxville, Tennessee 8-hour ozone nonattainment area (hereinafter referred to as the ``Knoxville Area'' or ``Area''). The Knoxville Area includes a portion of Anderson County as well as Blount and Knox Counties in their entireties. EPA is approving the base year emissions inventory for the 2008 8-hour ozone national ambient air quality standards (NAAQS) for the Knoxville Area; determining that the Knoxville Area is attaining the 2008 8-hour ozone NAAQS; approving into the SIP the State's plan for maintaining attainment of the 2008 8-hour ozone NAAQS in the Area, including the 2011 and 2026 motor vehicle emission budgets (MVEBs) for nitrogen oxides (NOX) and volatile organic compounds (VOC); and redesignating the Area to attainment for the 2008 8-hour ozone NAAQS. EPA is also finding the 2011 and 2026 MVEBs for NOX and VOC for the Knoxville Area adequate for the purposes of transportation conformity.
Notice of Receipt of Requests for Amendments To Terminate Uses in Certain Pesticide Registrations; Correction
EPA issued a notice in the Federal Register of June 10, 2015, concerning amendments to terminate uses in certain pesticide registrations. This document corrects errors in the sections titled ``DATES'' and ``What action is the agency taking?''.
Revisions to the California State Implementation Plan, South Coast Air Quality Management District
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is taking action to approve a revision to the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) portion of the California State Implementation Plan (SIP). This revision concerns volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions from Large Confined Animal Facilities. We are approving a local rule to regulate these emission sources under the Clean Air Act (CAA or the Act).
Findings of Failure To Submit a Section 110 State Implementation Plan for Interstate Transport for the 2008 National Ambient Air Quality Standards for Ozone
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is taking final action finding that 24 states have failed to submit infrastructure State Implementation Plans (SIPs) to satisfy certain interstate transport requirements of the Clean Air Act (CAA) with respect to the 2008 8-hour ozone national ambient air quality standard (NAAQS). Specifically, these requirements pertain to significant contribution to nonattainment, or interference with maintenance, of the 2008 8-hour ozone NAAQS in other states. These findings of failure to submit establish a 2-year deadline for the EPA to promulgate a Federal Implementation Plan (FIP) to address the interstate transport SIP requirements pertaining to significant contribution to nonattainment and interference with maintenance unless, prior to the EPA promulgating a FIP, the state submits, and the EPA approves, a SIP that meets these requirements.
Approval and Promulgation of Air Quality Implementation Plans; Maryland; Preconstruction Requirements-Nonattainment New Source Review
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is approving a State Implementation Plan (SIP) revision submitted on August 22, 2013 by the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) on behalf of the State of Maryland. This revision pertains to Maryland's major nonattainment New Source Review (NSR) program, notably preconstruction permitting requirements for sources of fine particulate matter (PM2.5). This action is being taken under the Clean Air Act (CAA).
Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Fuel Efficiency Standards for Medium- and Heavy-Duty Engines and Vehicles-Phase 2
EPA and NHTSA, on behalf of the Department of Transportation, are each proposing rules to establish a comprehensive Phase 2 Heavy- Duty (HD) National Program that will reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and fuel consumption for new on-road heavy-duty vehicles. This technology-advancing program would phase in over the long-term, beginning in the 2018 model year and culminating in standards for model year 2027, responding to the President's directive on February 18, 2014, to develop new standards that will take us well into the next decade. NHTSA's proposed fuel consumption standards and EPA's proposed carbon dioxide (CO2) emission standards are tailored to each of four regulatory categories of heavy-duty vehicles: Combination tractors; trailers used in combination with those tractors; heavy-duty pickup trucks and vans; and vocational vehicles. The proposal also includes separate standards for the engines that power combination tractors and vocational vehicles. Certain proposed requirements for control of GHG emissions are exclusive to EPA programs. These include EPA's proposed hydrofluorocarbon standards to control leakage from air conditioning systems in vocational vehicles, and EPA's proposed nitrous oxide (N2O) and methane (CH4) standards for heavy-duty engines. Additionally, NHTSA is addressing misalignment in the Phase 1 standards between EPA and NHTSA to ensure there are no differences in compliance standards between the agencies. In an effort to promote efficiency, the agencies are also proposing to amend their rules to modify reporting requirements, such as the method by which manufacturers submit pre-model, mid-model, and supplemental reports. EPA's proposed HD Phase 2 GHG emission standards are authorized under the Clean Air Act and NHTSA's proposed HD Phase 2 fuel consumption standards authorized under the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007. These standards would begin with model year 2018 for trailers under EPA standards and 2021 for all of the other heavy-duty vehicle and engine categories. The agencies estimate that the combined standards would reduce CO2 emissions by approximately 1 billion metric tons and save 1.8 billion barrels of oil over the life of vehicles and engines sold during the Phase 2 program, providing over $200 billion in net societal benefits. As noted, the proposal also includes certain EPA-specific provisions relating to control of emissions of pollutants other than GHGs. EPA is seeking comment on non- GHG emission standards relating to the use of auxiliary power units installed in tractors. In addition, EPA is proposing to clarify the classification of natural gas engines and other gaseous-fueled heavy- duty engines, and is proposing closed crankcase standards for emissions of all pollutants from natural gas heavy-duty engines. EPA is also proposing technical amendments to EPA rules that apply to emissions of non-GHG pollutants from light-duty motor vehicles, marine diesel engines, and other nonroad engines and equipment. Finally, EPA is proposing to require that rebuilt engines installed in new incomplete vehicles meet the emission standards applicable in the year of assembly, including all applicable standards for criteria pollutants.
Meetings of the Local Government Advisory Committee and the Small Communities Advisory Subcommittee
The Small Communities Advisory Subcommittee (SCAS) will meet in Washington, DC, on Friday, July 31, 2015, 8:00 a.m.-9:00 a.m. (EDT). The Subcommittee will discuss rural strategy; E-Enterprise; and other issues and recommendations to the Administrator regarding environmental issues affecting small communities. The Local Government Advisory Committee (LGAC) will meet in Washington, DC, on Thursday, July 30, 2015, 8:15 a.m.-5:30 p.m. (EDT), and Friday, July 31, 2015, 9:15 a.m.- 12:40 p.m. (EDT). The focus of the Committee meeting will be on issues pertaining to protecting America's waters; hydrofracturing; cleaning up our communities; air, climate and energy; and climate change resiliency and sustainability. These are open meetings, and all interested persons are invited to participate. The SCAS will hear comments from the public between 8:35 a.m. and 8:45 a.m. on Friday, July 31, 2015, and the LGAC will hear comments from the public between 9:30 a.m. and 9:45 a.m. on Friday, July 31, 2015. Individuals or organizations wishing to address the Subcommittee or the Committee will be allowed a maximum of five minutes to present their point of view. Also, written comments should be submitted electronically to eargle.frances@epa.gov. Please contact the Designated Federal Officer (DFO) at the number listed below to schedule a time on the agenda. Time will be allotted on a first-come first-serve basis, and the total period for comments may be extended if the number of requests for appearances requires it.
Clean Air Act Operating Permit Program; Petitions for Objection to State Operating Permit for the U.S. Department of Energy-Hanford Operations, Benton County, Washington
Pursuant to Clean Air Act (CAA) Section 505(b)(2) and 40 CFR 70.8(d), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator signed an Order, dated May 29, 2015, partially granting and partially denying two petitions filed by Bill Green of Richland, Washington (dated April 23, 2013, and April 21, 2014) asking the EPA to object to the title V operating permit (Permit No. 00-05-006, Renewal 2 and Permit No. 00-05- 006, Renewal 2, Revision A) issued by the Washington State Department of Ecology (Ecology) to the U.S. Department of Energy-Hanford Operations (DOE) relating to the Hanford site located in south central Washington. Sections 307(b) and 505(b)(2) of the CAA provide that a petitioner may ask for judicial review by the United States Court of Appeals for the appropriate circuit of those portions of the Order that denies objections raised in the petitions.
Approval and Promulgation of Air Quality Implementation Plans; Pennsylvania; Determination of Attainment of the 2006 24-Hour Fine Particulate Standard for the Liberty-Clairton Nonattainment Area
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is finalizing a determination of attainment regarding the Liberty-Clairton, Pennsylvania 2006 24-hour fine particulate matter (PM2.5) nonattainment area (hereafter ``Liberty-Clairton Area'' or ``the Area''). EPA is determining that the Liberty-Clairton Area has attained the 2006 24-hour PM2.5 National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS), based upon quality-assured, quality-controlled and certified ambient air monitoring data for the calendar years 2012-2014. EPA's final ``clean data determination'' will suspend the requirements to submit for the Liberty-Clairton Area an attainment demonstration, reasonably available control measures (RACM), reasonable further progress (RFP), and contingency measures related to attainment of the 2006 24-hour PM2.5 NAAQS, for so long as the Area continues to attain the 2006 24-hour PM2.5 NAAQS. This final determination will not constitute a redesignation to attainment. This final action is being taken under the Clean Air Act (CAA).
Notification of a Public Teleconference of the Science Advisory Board; Drinking Water Committee
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Science Advisory Board (SAB) Staff Office announces a public teleconference of the Drinking Water Committee (DWC) to review its draft report regarding the EPA's Draft Fourth Contaminant Candidate List (CCL4).
Revisions to the California State Implementation Plan, Butte County Air Quality Management District
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is finalizing a limited approval and limited disapproval of revisions to the Butte County Air Quality Management District (BCAQMD) portion of the California State Implementation Plan (SIP). These revisions concern volatile organic compound (VOC), oxides of nitrogen (NOX) and particulate matter (PM) emissions from open burning. Under authority of the Clean Air Act (CAA or the Act), this action simultaneously approves a local rule that regulates these emission sources and directs BCAQMD to correct rule deficiencies.
Approval and Promulgation of Air Quality Implementation Plans; Nebraska; Update to Materials Incorporated by Reference
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is updating the materials submitted by Nebraska that are incorporated by reference (IBR) into the state implementation plan (SIP). EPA is also notifying the public of the correction of certain typographical errors within the IBR table. The regulations affected by this update have been previously submitted by the state agency and approved by EPA. This update affects the SIP materials that are available for public inspection at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), and the Regional Office.
Revisions to the California State Implementation Plan, Feather River Air Quality Management District
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing to approve revisions to the Feather River Air Quality Management District (FRAQMD) portion of the California State Implementation Plan (SIP). Included in this approval are the following three SIP demonstrations from FRAQMD: 2006 Reasonably Available Control Technology (RACT) Analysis for State Implementation Plan (SIP), November 2006; Reasonably Available Control Technology State Implementation Plan Revision Negative Declaration for Control Techniques Guidelines Issued 2006- 2008, June 1, 2009; and Reasonably Available Control Technology Analysis and Negative Declarations, July 3, 2014. The first two demonstrations address the 1997 8-hour National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for ozone, and the third demonstration addresses the 2008 8-hour NAAQS for ozone. The submitted SIPs also contain negative declarations for volatile organic compound (VOC) source categories for the years 2006, 2009 and 2014. We are proposing to approve the submitted SIP revisions under the Clean Air Act as amended in 1990 (CAA or the Act). We are also proposing to approve a local rule that regulates gasoline dispending facilities.
Revisions to the California State Implementation Plan, Feather River Air Quality Management District
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is taking direct final action to approve revisions to the Feather River Air Quality Management District (FRAQMD or the District) portion of the California State Implementation Plan (SIP). Included in this approval are the following three SIP demonstrations from FRAQMD: 2006 Reasonably Available Control Technology (RACT) Analysis for State Implementation Plan (SIP), November 2006; Reasonably Available Control Technology State Implementation Plan Revision Negative Declaration for Control Techniques Guidelines Issued 2006-2008, June 1, 2009 and; Reasonably Available Control Technology Analysis and Negative Declarations, July 3, 2014. The first two demonstrations address the 1997 8-hour National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for ozone, and the third demonstration addresses the 2008 8-hour NAAQS for ozone. These submitted SIP revisions contain FRAQMD's negative declarations for volatile organic compound (VOC) source categories. We are approving the submitted SIP revisions under the Clean Air Act as amended in 1990 (CAA or the Act). We are also approving a local rule to regulate VOC emissions from gasoline dispensing facilities.
Approval and Promulgation of Air Quality Implementation Plans; Kansas; Update to Materials Incorporated by Reference
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is updating the materials submitted by Kansas that are incorporated by reference (IBR) into the state implementation plan (SIP). EPA is also notifying the public of the correction of certain typographical errors within the IBR table. The regulations affected by this update have been previously submitted by the state agency and approved by EPA. This update affects the SIP materials that are available for public inspection at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), and the Regional Office.
S-metolachlor; Pesticide Tolerances
This regulation establishes tolerances for residues of S- metolachlor in or on multiple commodities which are identified and discussed later in this document. Interregional Research Project Number 4 (IR-4) requested these tolerances under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA).
Pesticide Product Registration; Receipt of Applications for New Uses; Correction and Reopening of Comment Period
EPA issued a notice in the Federal Register of May 6, 2015, concerning Pesticide Product Registration; Receipt of Applications for New Uses. The notice inadvertently identified the applications listed as being new active ingredients rather than new uses. This document corrects that error and also reopens the comment period for an additional 30 days. EPA has received applications to register new uses for pesticide products containing currently registered active ingredients. Pursuant to the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), EPA is hereby providing notice of receipt and opportunity to comment on these applications.
Registration Review; Draft Human Health and Ecological Risk Assessments; Notice of Availability
This notice announces the availability of EPA's draft human health and ecological risk assessments for the registration reviews of flufenacet, flurprimidol, propoxur, and sodium acifluorfen, and opens a public comment period on these documents. In addition, this notice announces both the opening of the registration review docket for thidiazuron and the availability of the registration review draft human health and ecological risk assessments for thidiazuron. The Agency is opening a public comment period on both the Preliminary Work Plan and the draft risk assessments for thidiazuron. Through this program, EPA is ensuring that each pesticide's registration is based on current scientific and other knowledge, including its effects on human health and the environment.
Prohexadione Calcium; Pesticide Tolerances
This regulation establishes tolerances for residues of prohexadione calcium in or on strawberry and watercress. Inter-Regional Research Project Number 4 (IR-4) requested these tolerances under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA).
Registration Review Interim Decisions; Notice of Availability
This notice announces the availability of EPA's interim registration review decisions for the pesticides listed in the table in Unit II of this notice. Registration review is EPA's periodic review of pesticide registrations to ensure that each pesticide continues to satisfy the statutory standard for registration, that is, that the pesticide can perform its intended function without causing unreasonable adverse effects on human health or the environment. Through this program, EPA is ensuring that each pesticide's registration is based on current scientific and other knowledge, including its effects on human health and the environment. This document also announces the Agency's closure of the registration review docket diclofop-methyl. All pesticide products containing diclofop- methyl have been cancelled.
Notice of Receipt of Requests To Voluntarily Cancel Certain Pesticide Registrations and Amend Registrations To Terminate Certain Uses
In accordance with the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), EPA is issuing a notice of receipt of requests by the registrants to voluntarily cancel their registrations of certain products containing the pesticides carfentrazone-ethyl, chlorsulfuron, dichlorprop-p, flufenpyr-ethyl, flutolanil, glyphosate, metsulfuron, MGK 264, paraquat dichloride, piperonyl butoxide, propoxur, pyrethrins, quizalofop, thifensulfuron-methyl, and tribenuron-methyl and to amend their malathion, propoxur, and sulfur dioxide product registrations to terminate one or more uses. The requests are to terminate the malathion use in or on cull fruits and vegetable dumps and terminate the sulfur dioxide use in or on grapes. The request would also terminate all indoor aerosol, spray, and liquid formulations of propoxur, terminate its use in food handling establishments, and terminate indoor crack and crevice use. The requests do not seek to cancel the last carfentrazone- ethyl, chlorsulfuron, dichlorprop-p, flutolanil, glyphosate, metsulfuron, MGK 264, paraquat dichloride, piperonyl butoxide, propoxur, pyrethrins, quizalofop, thifensulfuron-methyl, and tribenuron-methyl products registered for use in the United States. The requests, if granted, would terminate the last flufenpyr-ethyl products registered in the United States. EPA intends to grant these requests at the close of the comment period for this announcement unless the Agency receives substantive comments within the comment period that would merit its further review of these requests, or unless the registrants withdraw their requests. If these requests are granted, any sale, distribution, or use of products listed in this notice will be permitted after the affected registrations have been cancelled or uses terminated only if such sale, distribution, or use is consistent with the terms described in the final cancellation order.
National Environmental Education Advisory Council
Under the Federal Advisory Committee Act, EPA gives notice of a teleconference meeting of the National Environmental Education Advisory Council (NEEAC). The NEEAC was created by Congress to advise, consult with, and make recommendations to the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on matters related to activities, functions and policies of EPA under the National Environmental Education Act (the Act). 20 U.S.C. 5508(b). The purpose of this teleconference is to discuss specific topics of relevance for consideration by the council in order to provide advice and insights to the Agency on environmental education.
Proposed Information Collection Request; Comment Request; National Water Quality Inventory Reports (Renewal)
The Environmental Protection Agency is planning to submit an information collection request (ICR), ``National Water Quality Inventory Reports (Renewal)'' (EPA ICR No. 1560.11, OMB Control No. 2040-0071) to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review and approval in accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act (44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.). Before submitting the ICR to OMB, EPA is soliciting public comments on specific aspects of the proposed information collection as described below. This is a request for renewal of an existing collection. An Agency may not conduct or sponsor and a person is not required to respond to a collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number.
Approval and Promulgation of Implementation Plans; Arkansas; Prevention of Significant Deterioration; Greenhouse Gas Plantwide Applicability Limit Permitting Revisions
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is approving one revision to the Arkansas State Implementation Plan (SIP) submitted by the Arkansas Governor to the EPA on January 7, 2014. This submittal revises the Arkansas Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD) Permitting Program to incorporate by reference federal plantwide applicability limit (PAL) permitting provisions to enable the State of Arkansas to issue PSD PALs to sources with greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The EPA has determined that the January 7, 2014 revision to the Arkansas SIP is consistent with federal requirements for PSD permitting. The EPA is also approving ministerial changes to the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) to reflect recent EPA SIP approvals to the Arkansas PSD program and to show that SIP deficiencies identified in prior partial disapprovals have been addressed. We are finalizing this action under section 110 and part C of title I of the Clean Air Act (CAA or the Act).
Performance Specification 18-Performance Specifications and Test Procedures for Hydrogen Chloride Continuous Emission Monitoring Systems at Stationary Sources
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is finalizing performance specifications and test procedures for hydrogen chloride (HCl) continuous emission monitoring systems (CEMS) to provide sources and regulatory agencies with criteria and test procedures for evaluating the acceptability of HCl CEMS. The final performance specification (Performance Specification 18) includes requirements for initial acceptance, including instrument accuracy and stability assessments. This action also finalizes quality assurance (QA) procedures for HCl CEMS used for compliance determination at stationary sources. The QA procedures (Procedure 6) specify the minimum QA requirements necessary for the control and assessment of the quality of CEMS data submitted to the EPA. This action establishes consistent requirements for ensuring and assessing the quality of HCl data measured by CEMS. The affected systems are those used for determining compliance with emission standards for HCl on a continuous basis as specified in an applicable permit or regulation. The affected industries and their North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) codes are listed in the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section of this preamble.
Delegation of Authority to the Commonwealth of Virginia To Implement and Enforce Additional or Revised National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants and New Source Performance Standards
On May 7, 2015, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sent the Commonwealth of Virginia (Virginia) a letter acknowledging that Virginia's delegation of authority to implement and enforce National Emissions Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) and New Source Performance Standards (NSPS) had been updated, as provided for under previously approved delegation mechanisms. To inform regulated facilities and the public of Virginia's updated delegation of authority to implement and enforce NESHAP and NSPS, EPA is making available a copy of EPA's letter to Virginia through this notice.
Proposed Consent Decree, Clean Air Act Citizen Suit
In accordance with section 113(g) of the Clean Air Act, as amended, (``CAA'' or the ``Act''), notice is hereby given of a proposed consent decree to address a lawsuit filed by Sierra Club and California Communities Against Toxics (collectively ``Plaintiffs''): Sierra Club, et al. v. EPA, No. 13-1639 (D. DC). In this lawsuit, Plaintiffs allege that EPA has failed to review, and revise if necessary, the national emission standards for hazardous air pollutants (``NESHAP'') for publicly owned treatment works (``POTWs'') within eight years of initial promulgation. They also allege that EPA failed to promulgate ``residual risk'' standards for POTWs or to determine that residual risk standards for POTWs are not necessary within eight years of initial promulgation of the NESHAP. The proposed consent decree establishes deadlines for EPA to take proposed and final action for meeting EPA's obligations under the applicable CAA provisions.
Approval of Air Quality Implementation Plans; Sheboygan County, Wisconsin 8-Hour Ozone Nonattainment Area; Reasonable Further Progress Plan
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing to approve an Early Progress Plan and motor vehicle emissions budgets (MVEBs) for volatile organic compounds and oxides of nitrogen for Sheboygan County, Wisconsin. Wisconsin submitted an Early Progress Plan for Sheboygan County on January 16, 2015. This submittal was developed to establish MVEBs for the Sheboygan 8-hour ozone nonattainment area. This approval of the Early Progress Plan for the Sheboygan 8-hour ozone area is based on EPA's determination that Wisconsin has demonstrated that the State Implementation Plan (SIP) revision containing these MVEBs, when considered with the emissions from all sources, shows some progress toward attainment from the 2011 base year through a 2015 target year.
Approval of Air Quality Implementation Plans; Sheboygan County, Wisconsin 8-Hour Ozone Nonattainment Area; Reasonable Further Progress Plan
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is approving an Early Progress Plan and motor vehicle emissions budgets (MVEBs) for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and oxides of nitrogen (NOX) for Sheboygan County, Wisconsin. Wisconsin submitted an Early Progress Plan for Sheboygan County on January 16, 2015. This submittal was developed to establish MVEBs for the Sheboygan 8-hour ozone nonattainment area. This approval of the Early Progress Plan for the Sheboygan 8-hour ozone area is based on EPA's determination that Wisconsin has demonstrated that the State Implementation Plan (SIP) revision containing these MVEBs, when considered with the emissions from all sources, shows some progress toward attainment from the 2011 base year through a 2015 target year.
Approval and Promulgation of Implementation Plans; Arkansas; Interstate Transport State Implementation Plan To Address Pollution Affecting Visibility
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing to disapprove a revision to the Arkansas State Implementation Plan (SIP) submitted by the State of Arkansas on September 16, 2009, for the purpose of addressing the requirements of the Clean Air Act (CAA) regarding interference with other states' programs for visibility protection for the 2006 revised 24-hour fine particulate matter (PM2.5) National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS). The EPA is proposing that the Federal Implementation Plan (FIP) we proposed on April 8, 2015, to address certain regional haze and visibility transport requirements for the State of Arkansas also remedies the deficiency created by our proposed disapproval of Arkansas' SIP submittal to address the requirement regarding interference with other states' programs for visibility protection for the 2006 PM2.5 NAAQS.
Approval and Promulgation of Air Quality Implementation Plans; Maryland; Minor New Source Review Requirements
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is approving a January 24, 2013 State Implementation Plan (SIP) revision submitted for the State of Maryland by the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE). This revision pertains to preconstruction permitting requirements under Maryland's minor New Source Review (NSR) program. This action is being taken under the Clean Air Act (CAA).
Cross-Media Electronic Reporting: Authorized Program Revision Approval, State of Kansas
This notice announces EPA's approval of the State of Kansas' request to revise/modify certain of its EPA-authorized programs to allow electronic reporting.
Receipt of Test Data Under the Toxic Substances Control Act
EPA is announcing its receipt of test data submitted pursuant to a test rule issued by EPA under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). As required by TSCA, this document identifies each chemical substance and/or mixture for which test data have been received; the uses or intended uses of such chemical substance and/or mixture; and describes the nature of the test data received. Each chemical substance and/or mixture related to this announcement is identified in Unit I. under SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION.
Transboundary Shipments of Hazardous Wastes Between OECD Member Countries: Revisions to the List of OECD Member Countries
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA or the Agency) is amending certain existing regulations that apply to the transboundary movement of hazardous waste among the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) Member countries as promulgated under the hazardous waste provisions of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). Specifically, EPA is updating the list of OECD member countries to add Estonia, Israel, and Slovenia. This amendment is necessary to accurately reflect the change in OECD Member countries that have implemented OECD Decision C(2001)107 and can trade hazardous wastes for recovery operations with other OECD countries under the procedure set forth in that Decision.
Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs): Revisions to Manifesting Regulations; Item Number
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA or the Agency) is issuing a technical amendment to correct references in the regulations to the item number for the Special Handling Instructions Box on the manifest form (EPA Form 8700-22). This document is being issued to amend the regulations by correcting these references.
Approval of Alabama's Request To Relax the Federal Reid Vapor Pressure Gasoline Volatility Standard for Birmingham, Alabama
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is taking final action to approve a request from the state of Alabama for the EPA to relax the Reid Vapor Pressure (RVP) standard applicable to gasoline introduced into commerce from June 1 to September 15 of each year for Jefferson and Shelby counties (``the Birmingham area''). Specifically, the EPA is approving amendments to the regulations to change the RVP standard for the Birmingham area from 7.8 pounds per square inch (psi) to 9.0 psi for gasoline. The EPA has determined that this change to the federal RVP regulation is consistent with the applicable provisions of the Clean Air Act (CAA). Additionally, the EPA is responding to adverse comments received for this action.
Approval of Alabama's Request To Relax the Federal Reid Vapor Pressure Gasoline Volatility Standard for Birmingham, Alabama
Due to the receipt of two adverse comments, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is withdrawing the May 7, 2015 direct final rule to approve the request from Alabama to relax the Reid Vapor Pressure (RVP) standard applicable to gasoline introduced into commerce from June 1 to September 15 of each year in Jefferson and Shelby counties, Alabama (``the Birmingham area''). The EPA is considering these comments and will address the comments in a separate action. The EPA will not institute a second comment period on this action.
Cross-Media Electronic Reporting: Authorized Program Revision Approval, State of Wyoming
This notice announces EPA's approval of the State of Wyoming's request to revise/modify certain of its EPA-authorized programs to allow electronic reporting.
Cross-Media Electronic Reporting: Authorized Program Revision Approval, State of South Dakota
This notice announces EPA's approval of the State of South Dakota's request to revise/modify certain of its EPA-authorized programs to allow electronic reporting.
The National Drinking Water Advisory Council: Request for Nominations
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) invites nominations of qualified candidates to be considered for a three-year appointment to the National Drinking Water Advisory Council (NDWAC or Council). The 15-member Council was established by the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) to provide practical and independent advice, consultation and recommendations to the EPA Administrator on the activities, functions, policies and regulations required by the SDWA. This notice solicits nominations to fill four new vacancies from December 2015 through December 2018. To maintain the representation required by statute, nominees will be selected to represent state and local agencies concerned with water hygiene and public water supply (two vacancies) and the general public (two vacancies).
Approval and Promulgation of Implementation Plans; Mississippi; Memphis, TN-MS-AR Emissions Inventory for the 2008 8-Hour Ozone Standard
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is taking direct final action to approve the portion of the state implementation plan (SIP) revision submitted by the State of Mississippi, through the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) on January 14, 2015, that addresses the base year emissions inventory requirements for the State's portion of the Memphis, Tennessee-Mississippi-Arkansas (Memphis, TN-MS-AR) 2008 8-hour ozone national ambient air quality standards (NAAQS) nonattainment area (hereafter referred to as the ``Memphis, TN-MS-AR Area'' or ``Area''). A base year emissions inventory is required for all ozone nonattainment areas. The Area is comprised of Shelby County in Tennessee, Crittenden County in Arkansas, and a portion of DeSoto County in Mississippi. EPA will take action on the emissions inventories for the Tennessee and Arkansas portions of the Area in separate actions.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google
Privacy Policy and
Terms of Service apply.