EPA extends comment period for Tier 3 emissions standard

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has extended the period to submit public comments regarding the proposed "Tier 3 Motor Vehicle Emissions and Fuel Standards," the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA) reported. Originally slated to close on June 13, the American Petroleum Institute (API) requested additional time given the level of technical information they anticipated would need to be provided. The new public comment period closes July 1, 2013.

The proposed standards issued by EPA this spring are intended to reduce levels of sulfur in gasoline beginning in 2017; and combined with vehicle emissions standards already promulgated, would result in significant reductions in air pollutants such as ozone, particulate matter and air toxics. The new standards are also intended to harmonize with California's Low Emission Vehicle program, permitting car companies to sell the same vehicle in all 50 states. While car companies generally support the new Tier 3 fuel standards, they are opposed by API.

The initial proposal, issued May 21, is more than 370 pages long, and has also garnered interested from congressional committees considering holding hearings on the subject.

To view the full Tier 3 proposal, visit http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2013-05-21/pdf/2013-08500.pdf.

To view instructions on how to provide public comment, including details on providing any data you believe to be Confidential Business Information, or CBI, visit http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2013-05-29/pdf/2013-12749.pdf.