Certain major stationary sources are specifically identified for additional emission limitations. The regional haze rule immediately affects state regulators, who need to develop new SIPs to reduce emissions contributing to regional haze. Emission limits that will be included in these SIPs will not take effect for several years. State regulators must meet a number of SIP development requirements. Each SIP must address haze-producing emissions affecting mandatory Class I areas within a given state and emissions contributing to visibility problems at mandatory Class I areas within other states.
States can choose whether to participate in regional groups addressing regional haze or work alone.
Alternatively, these states can develop individual regional haze plans. These emission-reducing technologies will be developed by the states and included in their implementation plans. EPA predicts that most SIPs will be submitted between 2003 and 2008. The final rule becomes effective on August 30, 1999. SO 2 may be affected by regional haze regulations promulgated on July 1, 1999.