On February 12, 2013, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposed a rule that would ensure states have plans in place that require industrial facilities across the country to follow air pollution rules during times when the facility is starting up or shutting down, or when a malfunction occurs. Air pollution emitted during these periods may adversely impact the health of people nearby and contribute to smog and other problems in communities that are further downwind.

• Fact Sheet: State Plans to Address Emissions During Startup, Shutdown, and Malfunction: Proposed Response to Petition for Rulemaking , Findings of Inadequacy, and Call for Plan Revisions (PDF)(4 pp, 33 K)