The EPA has yet to rule on the plan. Most observers presumed that state officials would follow the Federal Clean Air Act and acknowledge that these 21 counties should also be designated as nonattainment counties. The State of Texas, including Governor George W. Bush, has proposed that these 21 counties instead receive the designation of unclassifiable. Luckily, the EPA, which will make the final decision, has voiced its opposition to the plan put forth by Texas. At the most basic level, this maneuver by state officials violates the citizen s right to know that they live in an area which fails health standards for ozone.
High ozone can result in dramatic health consequences.
Last year, high school athletes in the Houston area were hospitalized because they were exercising when ozone levels were excessive. Furthermore, the Federal Clean Air Act mandates that areas that fail ozone standards must take steps to clean up the air. Otherwise, all actions are voluntary and oftentimes are not enough to result in clean air. TCE will continue to watchdog the process and advocate for effective action to fight air pollution. TCE will continue to testify before decision-makers and generate grassroots support for strong clean air laws and effective enforcement.