On April 14, 2020, the EPA announced its proposal to retain the NAAQS for particulate matter (PM) without changes. This includes both fine (PM2.5) and coarse (PM10) particles. Particles are measured in micrograms per cubic meter (ug/m3). The EPA is required to review these standards every five years and revise them, if appropriate, to provide the required protection for public health and welfare.
The NTAA is concerned that maintaining the current standards may not be stringent enough to protect the most vulnerable members of society, including those with pre-existing health conditions like COPD, heart disease, asthma and diabetes, including many citizens of Indian Country, who have a higher occurrence of these conditions. Recent scientific evidence links air pollution to lethal outcomes from respiratory diseases such as COVID-19. The deadline for comments was June 29, 2020.
- NTAA Comment Letter Submitted 6.29.2020
- NTAA Fact Sheet
- NTAA Template Letter for Tribes
- 6.10.20 Informational Webinar Video Recording
- 6.10.20 NTAA Presentation (PDF) for Informational Webinar
- 6.10.20 California Air Resources Board Presentation (PDF) for Informational Webinar
On June 29, 2020, NTAA Chairman Wilfred J. Nabahe submitted a letter concerning EPA’s proposal to retain the current National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for particulate matter (PM). On July 16, 2020 the EPA responded with a signed copy of the Agency’s response to Mr. Nabahe’s letter below.
EPA’s Response to the National Tribal Air Association’s June 29, 2020 Letter
The comments and recommendations expressed by NTAA have been forwarded to the docket for this rulemaking (Docket ID No. EPA-HQ-OAR-2015-0072) and will be considered as EPA moves forward in its decision-making process. EPA intends to issue a final rule on the PM NAAQS in December 2020.