Air Quality Controls

National Ambient Air Quality Standards should be Scientifically Based, Attainable, and Economically Feasible

Background:

As National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) become more stringent, states are struggling to find ways to further reduce air emissions. State clean-up plans (called SIPs) may include enforceable requirements that affect the business of construction. States and localities must show conformity between their transportation plans and SIPs or risk losing their federal transportation dollars.

AGC Message:

Ensure Air Quality Controls Do Not Impede Infrastructure Construction. The states and the federal government should ensure that air quality controls do not unnecessarily impede the ability of contractors to meet the nation’s growing infrastructure needs and eliminate the sanctioning of highway funds as a penalty prescribed by the Clean Air Act.
Oppose the Development of More Stringent NAAQS that Exclude Cost Considerations. AGC opposes federal, state, or local emissions reduction measures that have little or no proven environmental benefit or that could negatively impact contractors or the construction market, such as contract preferences, equipment use/operation restrictions, retroactive engine emissions limits (mandatory retrofits), accelerated fleet turnover requirements, and misguided land use controls. Air quality controls should be scientifically based, attainable, and economically feasible.