Comments to Congress on the Proposed EPA Particulate Matter Standard
On behalf of the National Stone, Sand & Gravel Association (NSSGA), the National Ready Mixed Concrete Association (NRMCA) and the Portland Cement Association (PCA), we write to you today regarding our deep concern over the proposed Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) particulate matter (PM) standard that is expected to lower the National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) particulate matter standard (PM 2.5) from its current level of 12.0 micrograms per cubic meter of air (µg/m3) to within the range of 8.0 to 11.0 µg/m3. The rule, proposed in January of 2023, allowed a 60-day public comment period, during which NSSGA, NRMCA and PCA each submitted comments outlining our concerns as well as a joint letter. The final rule is currently under interagency review by the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and is likely to be completed by the year's end.