The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is moving to reconsider the fine particulate matter (PM2.5) standard after manufacturers warned the tighter rule could expand nonattainment areas and slow permits for new and expanding factories. The Biden administration lowered the annual PM2.5 standard from 12 to nine micrograms per cubic meter in 2024, a change that industry groups said would significantly widen the number of counties subject to stricter federal air quality requirements.

EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin said the agency plans to revisit the standard, citing concerns about economic impacts and regulatory uncertainty. Manufacturers have argued the rule could make it harder to site and grow facilities without delivering proportional environmental gains.

“Manufacturers support clean air, but standards also need to be workable,” said James Lee, Ohio Manufacturers’ Association (OMA) managing director of public policy services. “When rules expand nonattainment areas without clear permitting guidance, they risk slowing investment and job growth without delivering meaningful environmental gains.”

The OMA has raised similar concerns, warning that expanded nonattainment designations could delay industrial projects and weaken Ohio’s competitiveness. OMA has engaged Ohio EPA and federal officials on implementation issues, urged clearer permitting guidance, and advocated for a balanced approach that protects air quality while allowing job-creating investments to move forward.

The OMA is inviting manufacturers to engage with the Ohio EPA on additional exceptional events demonstrations aimed at maintaining Ohio’s attainment status for PM2.5 standards. Companies interested in participating can contact James Lee for details on upcoming meetings and opportunities to engage. 1/27/2026