FR 2024-29404

The recent approval by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of Missouri's plan to manage emissions from municipal solid waste landfills represents a significant regulatory action focused on air pollution control. The rule, which will take effect on January 15, 2025, acknowledges measures submitted by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources (MoDNR) to adhere to the Clean Air Act’s requirements. This document outlines updates to the Missouri state rules and incorporates them into federal regulations. It effectively replaces current federal plans for municipal landfill emissions in Missouri.

General Summary

The core of this document centers on the EPA's approval of Missouri’s action plan to control the emissions from its municipal solid waste landfills. As part of doing so, Missouri submitted state rules that strengthen its adherence to federal emissions guidelines. These guidelines aim to systematically address the air pollution associated with landfills, predominantly focusing on controlling and reducing emissions of nonmethane organic compounds.

Significant Issues and Concerns

A notable issue highlighted in the document is the absence of an analysis concerning environmental justice. Neither MoDNR nor the EPA conducted an evaluation of how these emissions regulations might disproportionately affect low-income or minority populations. Given the emphasis on environmental justice in regulatory actions, this could be a significant oversight. It raises questions about whether the implications for vulnerable communities were adequately considered.

Another concern is the complexity around the "Incorporation by Reference" section, which might bewilder those unfamiliar with how to access and interpret legal documentation. Without a clear explanation on how to obtain these materials, general understanding may be hindered.

Additionally, while the document asserts that this is not a significant regulatory action under various Executive Orders, it lacks detailed explanation or justification for these assertions. This could be viewed as a lack of transparency, especially to those interested in understanding the legal and regulatory nuances.

Broad Public Impact

For the general public, this regulatory update is pivotal in the context of environmental protection and public health. By enforcing stricter controls on landfill emissions, the rule aims to improve air quality and mitigate pollution-related health risks. Residents, especially those living near large municipal landfills, may eventually see an improved quality of living through cleaner air.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

Positive Impacts:
Environmental advocates and public health stakeholders in Missouri might view this action as a positive development. The integration of state measures into federal plans could lead to more stringent enforcement, improved environmental conditions, and better health outcomes over time.

Negative Impacts:
Conversely, landfill operators and related businesses may face increased costs and operational challenges as they work to comply with the new state requirements. They might need to invest in new technologies or processes to meet the tighter emission controls, which could impact their economic viability or lead to increased costs for waste disposal.

In summary, while the EPA's action aims to align Missouri with federal air quality standards, ensuring public health and environmental benefits, the lack of environmental justice considerations and potential economic impacts on businesses present areas for scrutiny and dialogue. Stakeholders across the spectrum, from residents to business owners, will need to engage actively with these changes to optimize both compliance and benefit.