Federal Rules on Pollution from Oil and Gas Production and Storage
Official: National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants: Crude Oil and Natural Gas Production Facilities and Natural Gas Transmission and Storage Facilities; Technology Review and Reconsideration
Reading: The EPA proposes not to revise current NESHAP standards, to impose no additional control requirements for methanol, and to defer action on previously unregulated emission points under the first alternative approach, while narrowing the definition of 'associated equipment' to reduce industry burdens.
The agency is also proposing some minor technical fixes to the current regulations.
In clear language
The EPA is reviewing and updating federal rules that limit dangerous air pollution from oil and natural gas facilities. The EPA is proposing to keep most existing pollution standards the same, but is considering whether to add new rules for previously unregulated equipment like storage tanks and loading operations at oil and gas sites. The agency is also proposing some minor technical fixes to the current regulations.
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 that operate production, transmission, and storage facilities in New Jersey and nationwide
- Communities near oil and gas operations who may be exposed to hazardous air pollutants like methane and methanol
- Workers at crude oil and natural gas production and transmission facilities
- Air quality regulators in New Jersey and other states enforcing federal pollution standards
What can you do?
- Submit public comments on this proposal to the EPA during the comment period if you live near oil or gas facilities and have concerns about air quality
- Contact your New Jersey state representatives to advocate for stronger pollution controls if you support stricter standards
- Review air quality data for your area on the EPA's website to understand current pollution levels near oil and gas operations
Timeline
- Published: April 22, 2026
In the press
The Guardian reports that all operational US liquefied natural gas terminals have violated pollution limits, directly relating to federal oversight of pollution from natural gas facilities and storage operations covered under the EPA's review of National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants.
Coverage retrieved automatically from major and NJ outlets. Links go to the original reporting; the summary above draws only on these headlines.
No New Jersey official has a verified action on this policy yet.
Related policies
- Federal RegisterSep 9, 2026EPA approves New York's plan to prevent sulfur dioxide pollution from crossing state lines
The EPA is approving New York's air quality plan to ensure that sulfur dioxide pollution from New York doesn't harm air quality in neighboring states like New Jersey. Under federal law, each state must show it's controlling pollution so it doesn't drift across borders and worsen air quality elsewhere. This approval confirms New York is meeting that requirement for a specific air quality standard.
- Federal RegisterSep 9, 2026EPA Approves Indiana's Plan to Protect Air Quality and Visibility
The EPA is approving Indiana's plan to ensure its air quality programs meet federal Clean Air Act requirements, including rules to prevent pollution that would harm visibility in other states. This approval confirms Indiana has adequate safeguards in place to manage air emissions and protect air quality across state lines. The decision takes effect on October 9, 2026.
- Federal RegisterAug 27, 2026EPA Approval of Puerto Rico's Statement That It Has No Oil and Gas Facilities to Regulate
The EPA is proposing to approve Puerto Rico's formal statement that it has no crude oil or natural gas facilities that need to follow federal greenhouse gas emission rules. This approval means Puerto Rico won't need to create air quality plans for oil and gas operations because there are none in the territory. This is a routine federal action specific to Puerto Rico and does not affect New Jersey.
- Federal RegisterAug 27, 2026EPA Approves Kentucky's Plan to Keep Ozone Levels Safe in Louisville Area
The EPA is approving Kentucky's plan to keep ozone pollution levels safe in the Louisville area (Bullitt, Jefferson, and Oldham Counties) through 2034. This approval makes Kentucky's air-quality commitments legally binding and federally enforceable. The plan shows Louisville will continue meeting national clean-air standards for the next 10 years.