EPA on Thursday proposed allowing New Hampshire to end its vehicle emissions inspection program and pull out of a regional group of states that must reduce their smog-forming emissions.
The proposals, consideration of which was fast-tracked by EPA, come as the state faces a lawsuit arguing it is violating the Clean Air Act by ending its inspection program.
“EPA is committed to working collaboratively with states to reduce unnecessary regulatory burdens while maintaining strong environmental protections and following our statutory obligations,” EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin said in a statement.
Republican Gov. Kelly Ayotte last year signed into law an end to the state’s required emissions and safety checks for cars and trucks. But the emissions inspections are required because the state is a member of the Ozone Transport Region, which covers all or parts of states ranging from Maine to Virginia.
