A few months ago, the Ohio General Assembly snuck language into the budget bill directing the Ohio EPA to rescind what is known as the “Air Nuisance Rule.” The Air Nuisance Rule ensured Ohioans could sue polluters impacting air quality in their backyards even if the polluter “technically” met other air pollution standards.
In other words, if Ohio EPA rescinds the Air Nuisance Rule, the agency will be giving a free pass to companies polluting the air we breathe.
And all Ohioans deserve clean air, no matter where they live.
That’s why we’re asking everyone to send comments to the Ohio EPA urging it to maintain the Air Nuisance Rule. Even though the Ohio General Assembly snuck the provision into HB 96, the Governor and Ohio EPA Director can do the right thing and keep the Rule intact.
We’re recommending people say the following:
“The Ohio EPA should maintain the Air Nuisance Rule in its State Implementation Plan. The Rule provides an important backstop for protecting Ohioans against polluters that impact clean air in our communities. If a neighboring industry is dropping dirty air in my backyard, impacting my personal health, it shouldn’t matter if they meet other air quality standards. I’m still impacted. Please do the right thing and reject the Ohio General Assembly’s attempt to take away vital clean air protections. Maintain the Air Nuisance Rule for myself and future generations.”
However, you can always modify your comment as well, tailoring it to your personal perspective on the issue.
At the OEC, we’re committed to holding the Ohio General Assembly accountable for sneaking this provision into law. Thank you for joining us.
Submit your comment here:
Deadline Extended
The deadline to submit comment is October 6!
