The new standard for particulate matter, or PM2.5, has been lowered by 25% in March, from 12 micrograms per cubic meter of air to nine micrograms. This change has been met with criticism from the NAM and allied groups who believe that the EPA’s final rule on particulate matter is overly stringent and poses a threat to U.S. innovation and economic growth.
In response to this rule, the NAM and 58 allied organizations have urged key House and Senate members to take action to stop the harmful effects before they take effect. The potential negative impacts of this rule change include making it harder to create jobs, build state-of-the-art factories, and lead in developing products that will shape modern life in the future.
The compliance costs of this rule change are estimated to exceed $1.8 billion, according to the EPA’s own estimates. Additionally, the stricter standards put the U.S. at a disadvantage compared to global competitors who have adopted less stringent standards over a longer period of time.
Congress is being encouraged to pass a resolution of disapproval regarding the new standard promptly in order to mitigate these potential negative impacts on the economy and innovation in the country. This action is seen as necessary to ensure that U.S businesses can continue to thrive while also protecting public health and safety.