The state of Arizona and four other states are suing the federal government over new air quality standards.
The U.S Environmental Protection Agency recently lowered it standards for ozone from 75 parts per billion to 70 parts per billion. The agency has said the new standards come after rigorous review of public health studies, but Arizona Attorney General Mark Brnovich disagrees.
In a statement, Brnovich said the revised limit will be nearly impossible for Arizona to attain because most emissions come from vehicles, which the state cannot regulate. As a result, he argues the rule will cause significant financial harm to industries in the state.
When the new standards were announced earlier this month, the Sierra Club and other environmental groups praised the EPA’s move, saying it’s critical for public health. Arkansas, New Mexico, North Dakota and Arkansas are also part of the suit.
