EPA ‘Tier III’ Rule Offers Regulatory Justification, Flexibilities For Refiners

摘要

EPA in its long-awaited proposed "Tier III" fuel and vehicle emission rule is offering a broad regulatory justification for the policy that could help rebut refiners' claims that the agency lacks any reason for pursuing the rule, while also offering the refining sector flexibilities that could ease refiners’ costs and compliance with the proposal. The March 29 proposal has the support of environmentalists and several states who say it will improve air quality by reducing vehicle emissions, helping states attain federal air standards - one of EPA's justifications for the rule. Major automakers also endorse the rule because it will harmonize federal regulations with California's vehicle rules, meaning regulatory consistency for auto manufacturers, another reason EPA cites for pushing ahead with the rule. Relevant documents are available on InsideEPA.com. See page 2 for details.