EPA to enforce environmental legislation in Texas

Environmental legislation will be enforced in Texas, despite proposals to make changes to the state's clean-air permitting programme.

The US Environmental Protection Agency yesterday announced that it will disapprove key aspects of the scheme that do not meet federal Clean Air Act requirements followed by other states.

Acting regional administrator Lawrence Starfield said that plans are already under way to bring together state regulatory officials, industry representatives and community leaders to find ways to address concerns with the initiative.

"Texas' air permitting programme should be transparent and understandable to the communities we serve, protective of air quality and establish clear and consistent requirements," he stated.

He added that significant changes are necessary in order for it to comply with the Clean Air Act.

This news comes after the Austin Business Journal reported that officials were recently urging residents and businesses across Central Texas to help improve levels of air pollution in the state.

Written by Joseph Hutton