EPA updates rules for oil and natural gas companies to control methane and other pollution
Official: Reconsideration of Standards of Performance for New, Reconstructed, and Modified Sources and Emissions Guidelines for Existing Sources: Oil and Natural Gas Sector Climate Review
Reading: The EPA is finalizing discrete technical amendments to flaring provisions and monitoring requirements within the existing March 2024 NSPS/EG rule for oil and natural gas, without altering the substance of emission standards themselves.
These are small refinements to rules that were finalized in March 2024, and they don't change the main pollution limits that companies must follow.
In clear language
The EPA is making technical updates to its rules that control pollution from oil and natural gas operations. The changes focus on how companies handle waste gases through flaring (burning off gas) and how they monitor the energy content of those gases. These are small refinements to rules that were finalized in March 2024, and they don't change the main pollution limits that companies must follow.
How does this affect you?
Pick the type of resident or organization you most identify with — we'll generate a plain-language breakdown of what changes for you and what you can do about it.
Who does this affect?
- Oil and natural gas companies operating in the United States, including those in New Jersey
- Communities near oil and gas facilities that may be affected by emissions
- Environmental agencies responsible for monitoring compliance with federal rules
What can you do?
- Stay informed about air quality in your area by checking EPA air quality reports or local environmental agency updates
- Support or provide feedback on state-level climate policies that go beyond federal requirements
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- 2026-04-09: EPA published this final rule
- 2026-06-08: Rule becomes effective
No New Jersey official has a verified action on this policy yet.
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- NJ LegislatureOct 8, 2026Classifying Greenhouse Gases as Air Pollutants in New Jersey
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