New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules Ec-Air - Air Resources Council (Will replace Env-AC)
Overview
The Ec-Air chapter in the New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules is the set of administrative rules governing the Air Resources Council. This chapter replaces the older Env-AC rules, reflecting an update or reorganization of rules related to air quality management and regulation in New Hampshire.
1. Air Resources Council (ARC)
The Air Resources Council is a state-level regulatory body responsible for overseeing the management and protection of air quality in New Hampshire. It plays a crucial role in developing and implementing policies and programs aimed at:
Reducing air pollution
Ensuring compliance with state and federal air quality standards
Protecting public health and the environment
2. Purpose of the Ec-Air Rules
The Ec-Air rules set forth the:
Structure and operation of the Air Resources Council
Procedures for the Council’s decision-making processes
Requirements for permits, monitoring, and enforcement related to air pollution sources
Mechanisms for public participation and transparency in air quality regulation
Policies to comply with both state law and federal environmental regulations, particularly the Clean Air Act
3. Why Replace Env-AC?
The replacement of Env-AC with Ec-Air typically indicates:
A reorganization to streamline or update the rules
Changes in statutory authority or administrative structure
Updates to align with current air quality standards or federal requirements
Improvements in clarity, process, or enforcement mechanisms
4. Scope and Applicability
The Ec-Air rules apply to:
The Air Resources Council as a body
Regulated entities, including businesses, industries, and facilities that emit air pollutants
Government agencies involved in air quality management
The public, particularly through provisions for public hearings and participation
5. Key Areas Covered by Ec-Air Rules
Here are the typical topics covered in the Ec-Air chapter:
A. Council Composition and Powers
Defines who serves on the Council
Outlines Council members' terms and appointment process
Describes the Council’s powers, including rulemaking, hearings, and enforcement authority
B. Permitting and Emission Standards
Procedures for issuing air quality permits for sources of pollution
Emission limits and control technology requirements
Monitoring, recordkeeping, and reporting obligations for permit holders
C. Enforcement and Compliance
Inspection and investigation procedures
Penalties and corrective actions for violations
Appeals and review procedures
D. Public Participation
Requirements for public notice of proposed permits and rule changes
Procedures for public hearings and comment periods
Mechanisms for public complaints regarding air quality
E. Coordination with Federal and State Laws
Ensures state rules align with the federal Clean Air Act and EPA regulations
Provides for cooperative enforcement and data sharing
6. Impact of Ec-Air Rules
The adoption of the Ec-Air chapter ensures that New Hampshire maintains a modern and effective regulatory framework for protecting air quality. This:
Supports public health by controlling pollutants like particulate matter, ozone precursors, and hazardous air pollutants
Encourages cleaner technologies and pollution prevention strategies
Enhances transparency and accountability in environmental governance
7. Relation to Other Environmental Rules
While Ec-Air focuses on air quality, it works alongside other chapters that regulate water quality, waste management, and environmental conservation. Coordination among these rules ensures comprehensive environmental protection in New Hampshire.
Summary
The Ec-Air chapter governs the Air Resources Council and updates/replaces the old Env-AC rules.
It defines how air quality is regulated in New Hampshire, including permitting, enforcement, and public involvement.
The rules reflect current legal requirements and aim to protect the environment and public health.
The Air Resources Council operates under these rules to fulfill its mission of managing air pollution effectively.
RELATED Blog
0 comments