EPA Approves California's Backup Plan to Reduce Ozone Pollution in San Joaquin Valley
Official: Approval of Clean Air Plans; San Joaquin Valley, California; Contingency Measures for 1997 Ozone Standards
Reading: EPA approval of California's existing Smog Check contingency measure SIP for 1997 ozone standards extends the previously approved contingency measure without introducing major new stringency or reductions.
This approval also fulfills a commitment California made in a previous agreement with the EPA.
In clear language
The EPA has approved California's plan for backup pollution control measures (called 'contingency measures') for the San Joaquin Valley, one of the nation's most severely polluted areas for ozone. The approval confirms that California's existing Smog Check vehicle emissions testing program, combined with justifications for not adding further controls, meets federal clean air requirements. This approval also fulfills a commitment California made in a previous agreement with the EPA.
How does this affect you?
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Who does this affect?
- Residents of San Joaquin Valley who breathe air affected by ozone pollution
- California state environmental agencies responsible for implementing clean air plans
- Vehicle owners in California subject to Smog Check emissions testing
- Businesses and industries operating in the San Joaquin Valley
What can you do?
- Ensure your vehicle passes California's Smog Check emissions test to support the plan's effectiveness
- Stay informed about local air quality alerts and limit outdoor activities on unhealthy air days
- Support or advocate for local clean air initiatives in your community
Timeline
- Effective: 2026-04-22
- Effective: 2026-04-22
- Effective: 2026-04-22
- Effective: 2026-04-22
- Effective: 2026-04-22
- Effective: 2026-04-22
- Effective: 2026-04-22
- Effective: 2026-04-22
- Effective: 2026-04-22
- Effective: 2026-04-22
- Effective: 2026-04-22
- Effective: 2026-04-22
- September 15, 2023 - California submitted the Smog Check Contingency Measure SIP
- March 23, 2026 - EPA published this approval decision
- April 22, 2026 - Approval becomes effective
No New Jersey official has a verified action on this policy yet.
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