83_FR_23009 83 FR 22913 - Air Plan Approval; Minnesota; PSD Infrastructure SIP Requirements

83 FR 22913 - Air Plan Approval; Minnesota; PSD Infrastructure SIP Requirements

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY

Federal Register Volume 83, Issue 96 (May 17, 2018)

Page Range22913-22918
FR Document2018-10458

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing to approve elements of a state implementation plan (SIP) submission from Minnesota regarding the infrastructure requirements of section 110 of the Clean Air Act (CAA) relating to Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD) for the 1997 ozone, 1997 fine particulate (PM<INF>2.5</INF>), 2006 PM<INF>2.5</INF>, 2008 lead (Pb), 2008 ozone, 2010 nitrogen dioxide (NO<INF>2</INF>), 2010 sulfur dioxide (SO<INF>2</INF>), and 2012 PM<INF>2.5</INF> National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) submitted the SIP revision to EPA on October 4, 2016.

Federal Register, Volume 83 Issue 96 (Thursday, May 17, 2018)
[Federal Register Volume 83, Number 96 (Thursday, May 17, 2018)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 22913-22918]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2018-10458]


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ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY

40 CFR Part 52

[EPA-R05-OAR-2016-0603; FRL-9978-11-Region 5]


Air Plan Approval; Minnesota; PSD Infrastructure SIP Requirements

AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

ACTION: Proposed rule.

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SUMMARY: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing to 
approve elements of a state implementation plan (SIP) submission from 
Minnesota regarding the infrastructure requirements of section 110 of 
the Clean Air Act (CAA) relating to Prevention of Significant 
Deterioration (PSD) for the 1997 ozone, 1997 fine particulate 
(PM2.5), 2006 PM2.5, 2008 lead (Pb), 2008 ozone, 
2010 nitrogen dioxide (NO2), 2010 sulfur dioxide 
(SO2), and 2012 PM2.5 National Ambient Air 
Quality Standards (NAAQS). The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency 
(MPCA) submitted the SIP revision to EPA on October 4, 2016.

DATES: Comments must be received on or before June 18, 2018.

ADDRESSES: Submit your comments, identified by Docket ID No. EPA-R05-
OAR-2016-0603 at http://www.regulations.gov, or via email to 
[email protected]. For comments submitted at Regulations.gov, 
follow the online instructions for submitting comments. Once submitted, 
comments cannot be edited or removed from Regulations.gov. For either 
manner of submission, EPA may publish any comment received to its 
public docket. Do not submit electronically any information you 
consider to be Confidential Business Information (CBI) or other 
information whose disclosure is restricted by statute. Multimedia 
submissions (audio, video, etc.) must be accompanied by a written 
comment. The written comment is considered the official comment and 
should include discussion of all points you wish to make. EPA will 
generally not consider comments or comment contents located outside of 
the primary submission (i.e., on the web, cloud, or other file sharing 
system). For additional submission methods, please contact the person 
identified in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section. For the full 
EPA public comment policy, information about CBI or multimedia 
submissions, and general guidance on making effective comments, please 
visit http://www2.epa.gov/dockets/commenting-epa-dockets.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Eric Svingen, Environmental Engineer, 
Attainment Planning and Maintenance Section, Air Programs Branch (AR-
18J), Environmental Protection Agency, Region 5, 77 West Jackson 
Boulevard, Chicago, Illinois 60604, (312) 353-4489, 
[email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Throughout this document whenever ``we,'' 
``us,'' or ``our'' is used, we mean EPA. This supplementary information 
section is arranged as follows:

I. What is the background of this SIP submission?
II. What guidance is EPA using to evaluate this SIP submission?
III. What is the result of EPA's review of this SIP submission?
IV. What action is EPA taking?
V. Statutory and Executive Order Reviews

I. What is the background of this SIP submission?

    This rulemaking proposes to approve a SIP submission from MPCA 
dated October 4, 2016, which addresses infrastructure requirements 
relating to PSD for the 1997 ozone, 1997 PM2.5, 2006 
PM2.5, 2008 Pb, 2008 ozone, 2010 NO2, 2010 
SO2, and 2012 PM2.5 NAAQS.
    The requirement for states to make infrastructure SIP submissions 
arises out of CAA section 110(a)(1). Pursuant to CAA section 110(a)(1), 
states must make SIP submissions ``within 3 years (or such shorter 
period as the Administrator may prescribe) after the promulgation of a 
national primary ambient air quality standard (or any revision 
thereof),'' and these SIP submissions are to provide for the 
``implementation, maintenance, and enforcement'' of such NAAQS. The 
statute directly imposes on states the duty to make these SIP 
submissions, and the requirement to make the submissions is not 
conditioned upon EPA's taking any action other than promulgating a new 
or revised NAAQS. CAA section 110(a)(2) includes a list of specific 
elements that ``[e]ach such plan'' submission must address.
    EPA has historically referred to these SIP submissions made for the 
purpose of satisfying the requirements of CAA section 110(a)(1) and (2) 
as ``infrastructure SIP'' submissions. Although the term 
``infrastructure SIP'' does not appear in the CAA, EPA uses the term to 
distinguish this particular type of SIP submission from submissions 
that are intended to satisfy other SIP requirements under the CAA. This 
specific rulemaking is only taking action on the infrastructure SIP 
elements relating to PSD, provided at CAA sections 110(a)(2)(C), 
110(a)(2)(D)(i)(II), 110(a)(2)(D)(ii), and 110(a)(2)(J).
    In previous rulemakings, EPA addressed Minnesota's infrastructure 
obligations under the various NAAQS. On July 13, 2011 (76 FR 41075), 
EPA approved most elements of Minnesota's infrastructure SIP submittal 
for the 1997 ozone and 1997 PM2.5 NAAQS. On October 29, 2012 
(77 FR 65478), EPA approved most elements of Minnesota's infrastructure 
SIP submittal for the 2006 PM2.5 NAAQS. On July 16, 2014 (79 
FR 41439), EPA approved most elements of Minnesota's infrastructure SIP 
submittal for the 2008 Pb NAAQS. Finally, on October 20, 2015 (80 FR 
63436), EPA approved most elements of Minnesota's infrastructure SIP 
submittal for the 2008 ozone, 2010 NO2, 2010 SO2, 
and 2012 PM2.5 NAAQS. However, because Minnesota did not 
have an approved

[[Page 22914]]

PSD program at the time of these rulemakings, EPA generally disapproved 
infrastructure SIP elements relating to PSD in the rulemakings.\1\
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    \1\ States may develop and implement their own PSD programs, 
which are evaluated against EPA's requirements for each component. 
States may alternatively decline to develop their own program, but 
instead directly implement Federal PSD rules. At the time of the 
infrastructure rulemakings referenced above, Minnesota had chosen to 
implement the Federally promulgated PSD rules at 40 CFR 52.21, and 
EPA had delegated to Minnesota the authority to implement these 
regulations. The Federally promulgated rules satisfied all 
infrastructure requirements relating to PSD. However, as a delegated 
program, these infrastructure elements were not approved into the 
Minnesota SIP.
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    MPCA's submission dated October 4, 2016, requested that EPA approve 
into its SIP Minnesota Rule 7007.3000, which incorporates by reference 
the Federal PSD rules at 40 CFR 52.21. On July 10, 2017 (82 FR 31741), 
EPA proposed to approve this request, and on September 26, 2017 (82 FR 
44734), EPA finalized approval; the change became effective on October 
26, 2017. Therefore, Minnesota is now implementing its own SIP-approved 
PSD program.
    In this rulemaking, as requested by Minnesota, EPA is proposing to 
find that Minnesota has satisfied all infrastructure SIP elements 
relating to PSD, at CAA sections 110(a)(2)(C), 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(II), 
110(a)(2)(D)(ii), and 110(a)(2)(J), for the 1997 ozone, 1997 
PM2.5, 2006 PM2.5, 2008 Pb, 2008 ozone, 2010 
NO2, 2010 SO2, and 2012 PM2.5 NAAQS.

II. What guidance is EPA using to evaluate this SIP submission?

    EPA's guidance relating to infrastructure SIP submissions can be 
found in a guidance document entitled ``Guidance on SIP Elements 
Required Under Sections 110(a)(1) and (2) for the 1997 8-hour Ozone and 
PM2.5 \2\ National Ambient Air Quality Standards'' (2007 
Guidance).\3\ Further guidance is provided in a September 13, 2013, 
document entitled ``Guidance on Infrastructure State Implementation 
Plan (SIP) Elements under CAA Sections 110(a)(1) and (2)'' (2013 
Guidance).\4\
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    \2\ PM2.5 refers to particles with an aerodynamic 
diameter of less than or equal to 2.5 micrometers, oftentimes 
referred to as ``fine'' particles.
    \3\ https://www3.epa.gov/ttn/naaqs/aqmguide/collection/cp2/20071002_harnett_110(a)_sip_guidance.pdf.
    \4\ https://www3.epa.gov/airquality/urbanair/sipstatus/docs/Guidance_on_Infrastructure_SIP_Elements_Multipollutant_FINAL_Sept_2013.pdf.
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III. What is the result of EPA's review of this SIP submission?

    Pursuant to CAA section 110(a), states must provide reasonable 
notice and opportunity for public hearing for all infrastructure SIP 
submissions. MPCA commenced a public comment period on June 20, 2016, 
and closed the public comment period on July 20, 2016. Minnesota 
received three comments, and provided a response to comments in its 
submittal.
    Minnesota provided a synopsis of how its SIP meets each of the 
applicable requirements in CAA sections 110(a)(2)(C), 
110(a)(2)(D)(i)(II), 110(a)(2)(D)(ii), and 110(a)(2)(J) for the 1997 
ozone, 1997 PM2.5, 2006 PM2.5, 2008 Pb, 2008 
ozone, 2010 NO2, 2010 SO2, and 2012 
PM2.5 NAAQS, as applicable. The following review evaluates 
the state's submission.

A. CAA Section 110(a)(2)(C)

    States are required to include a program providing for enforcement 
of all SIP measures and the regulation of construction of new or 
modified stationary sources to meet new source review (NSR) 
requirements under PSD and nonattainment NSR (NNSR) programs. Part C of 
the CAA (sections 160-169B) addresses PSD, while part D of the CAA 
(sections 171-193) addresses NNSR requirements.
    The evaluation of the state's submission addressing the 
infrastructure SIP requirements of CAA section 110(a)(2)(C) covers: (i) 
Enforcement of SIP measures; (ii) PSD provisions that explicitly 
identify oxides of nitrogen (NOX) as a precursor to ozone in 
the PSD program; (iii) identification of precursors to PM2.5 
and the identification of PM2.5 and PM10 \5\ 
condensables in the PSD program; (iv) PM2.5 increments in 
the PSD program; and, (v) greenhouse gas (GHG) permitting and the 
``Tailoring Rule.'' \6\
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    \5\ PM10 refers to particles with an aerodynamic 
diameter of less than or equal to 10 micrometers.
    \6\ In EPA's April 28, 2011, proposed rulemaking for 
infrastructure SIPs for the 1997 ozone and PM2.5 NAAQS, 
we stated that each state's PSD program must meet applicable 
requirements for evaluation of all regulated NSR pollutants in PSD 
permits (see 76 FR 23757 at 23760). This view was reiterated in 
EPA's August 2, 2012, proposed rulemaking for infrastructure SIPs 
for the 2006 PM2.5 NAAQS (see 77 FR 45992 at 45998). In 
other words, if a state lacks provisions needed to adequately 
address NOx as a precursor to ozone, PM2.5 precursors, 
PM2.5 and PM10 condensables, PM2.5 
increments, or the Federal GHG permitting thresholds, the provisions 
of CAA section 110(a)(2)(C) requiring a suitable PSD permitting 
program must be considered not to be met irrespective of the NAAQS 
that triggered the requirement to submit an infrastructure SIP, 
including the 2012 PM2.5 NAAQS.
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Sub-Element 1: Enforcement of SIP Measures
    States are required to include a program providing for enforcement 
of all SIP measures and the regulation of construction of new or 
modified stationary sources to meet NSR requirements under PSD and NNSR 
programs.
    In our previous rulemakings at 76 FR 41075, 77 FR 65478, 79 FR 
41439, and 80 FR 634536, EPA determined that Minnesota has met the 
enforcement of SIP measures requirements of CAA section 110(a)(2)(C) 
with respect to the 1997 ozone, 1997 PM2.5, 2006 
PM2.5, 2008 Pb, 2008 ozone, 2010 NO2, 2010 
SO2, and 2012 PM2.5 NAAQS.
Sub-Element 2: PSD Provisions That Explicitly Identify NOX 
as a Precursor to Ozone in the PSD Program
    EPA's ``Final Rule to Implement the 8-Hour Ozone National Ambient 
Air Quality Standard--Phase 2; Final Rule to Implement Certain Aspects 
of the 1990 Amendments Relating to New Source Review and Prevention of 
Significant Deterioration as They Apply in Carbon Monoxide, Particulate 
Matter, and Ozone NAAQS; Final Rule for Reformulated Gasoline'' (Phase 
2 Rule) was published on November 29, 2005 (70 FR 71612). Among other 
requirements, the Phase 2 Rule obligated states to revise their PSD 
programs to explicitly identify NOx as a precursor to ozone (see 70 FR 
71612 at 71679, 71699-71704). This requirement was codified at 40 CFR 
51.166 and 40 CFR 52.21.
    The Phase 2 Rule required that states submit SIP revisions 
incorporating the requirements of the rule, including the provisions 
specific to NOX as a precursor to ozone, by June 15, 2007 
(see 70 FR 71612 at 71683).
    On September 26, 2017 (82 FR 44734), EPA approved into the 
Minnesota SIP Minn. R. 7007.3000, which incorporates by reference ``as 
amended'' the Federal PSD rules at 40 CFR 52.21. These Federal PSD 
rules fully satisfy the requirements of CAA section 110(a)(2)(C) 
regarding NOX as a precursor to ozone. EPA therefore 
proposes that Minnesota has met this set of infrastructure SIP 
requirements of CAA section 110(a)(2)(C) with respect to the 1997 
ozone, 1997 PM2.5, 2006 PM2.5, 2008 Pb, 2008 
ozone, 2010 NO2, 2010 SO2, and 2012 
PM2.5 NAAQS.
Sub-Element 3: Identification of Precursors to PM2.5 and the 
Identification of PM2.5 and PM10 Condensables in 
the PSD Program
    On May 16, 2008 (73 FR 28321), EPA issued the Final Rule on the 
``Implementation of the New Source Review (NSR) Program for Particulate 
Matter Less than 2.5 Micrometers (PM2.5)'' (2008 NSR Rule). 
The 2008 NSR Rule finalized several new requirements for SIPs to 
address sources

[[Page 22915]]

that emit direct PM2.5 and other pollutants that contribute 
to secondary PM2.5 formation. One of these requirements is 
for NSR permits to address pollutants responsible for the secondary 
formation of PM2.5, otherwise known as precursors. In this 
rule, EPA identified precursors to PM2.5 for the PSD program 
to be SO2 and NOX (unless the state demonstrates 
to the Administrator's satisfaction or EPA demonstrates that 
NOX emissions in an area are not a significant contributor 
to that area's ambient PM2.5 concentrations). The 2008 NSR 
Rule also specifies that volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are not 
considered to be precursors to PM2.5 in the PSD program 
unless the state demonstrates to the Administrator's satisfaction or 
EPA demonstrates that emissions of VOCs in an area are significant 
contributors to that area's ambient PM2.5 concentrations.
    The explicit references to SO2, NOX, and VOCs 
as they pertain to secondary PM2.5 formation are codified at 
40 CFR 51.166(b)(49)(i)(b) and 40 CFR 52.21(b)(50)(i)(b). As part of 
identifying pollutants that are precursors to PM2.5, the 
2008 NSR Rule also required states to revise the definition of 
``significant'' as it relates to a net emissions increase or the 
potential of a source to emit pollutants. Specifically, 40 CFR 
51.166(b)(23)(i) and 40 CFR 52.21(b)(23)(i) define ``significant'' for 
PM2.5 to mean the following emissions rates: 10 tons per 
year (tpy) of direct PM2.5; 40 tpy of SO2; and 40 
tpy of NOX (unless the state demonstrates to the 
Administrator's satisfaction or EPA demonstrates that NOX 
emissions in an area are not a significant contributor to that area's 
ambient PM2.5 concentrations). The deadline for states to 
submit SIP revisions to their PSD programs incorporating these changes 
was May 16, 2011 (see 73 FR 28321 at 28341).\7\
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    \7\ EPA notes that on January 4, 2013, the U.S. Court of Appeals 
for the D.C. Circuit, in Natural Resources Defense Council v. EPA, 
706 F.3d 428 (D.C. Cir.), held that EPA should have issued the 2008 
NSR Rule in accordance with the CAA's requirements for 
PM10 nonattainment areas (Title I, Part D, subpart 4), 
and not the general requirements for nonattainment areas under 
subpart 1 (Natural Resources Defense Council v. EPA, No. 08-1250). 
As the subpart 4 provisions apply only to nonattainment areas, EPA 
does not consider the portions of the 2008 NSR Rule that address 
requirements for PM2.5 attainment and unclassifiable 
areas to be affected by the court's opinion. Moreover, EPA does not 
anticipate the need to revise any PSD requirements promulgated by 
the 2008 NSR Rule in order to comply with the court's decision. 
Accordingly, EPA's approval of Minnesota's infrastructure SIP as to 
elements relating to PSD, provided at CAA sections 110(a)(2)(C), 
110(a)(2)(D)(i)(II), 110(a)(2)(D)(ii), and 110(a)(2)(J), with 
respect to the PSD requirements promulgated by the 2008 NSR Rule, 
does not conflict with the court's opinion. The Court's decision 
with respect to the nonattainment NSR requirements promulgated by 
the 2008 NSR Rule also does not affect EPA's action on the present 
infrastructure action. EPA interprets the CAA to exclude 
nonattainment area requirements, including requirements associated 
with a nonattainment NSR program, from infrastructure SIP 
submissions due three years after adoption or revision of a NAAQS. 
Instead, these elements are typically referred to as nonattainment 
SIP or attainment plan elements, which would be due by the dates 
statutorily prescribed under subpart 2 through 5 under part D, 
extending as far as 10 years following designations for some 
elements.
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    The 2008 NSR Rule did not require states to immediately account for 
gases that could condense to form particulate matter, known as 
condensables, in PM2.5 and PM10 emission limits 
in NSR permits. Instead, EPA determined that states had to account for 
PM2.5 and PM10 condensables for applicability 
determinations and in establishing emissions limitations for 
PM2.5 and PM10 in PSD permits beginning on or 
after January 1, 2011. This requirement is codified in 40 CFR 
51.166(b)(49)(i)(a) and 40 CFR 52.21(b)(50)(i)(a). Revisions to states' 
PSD programs incorporating the inclusion of condensables were required 
to be submitted to EPA by May 16, 2011 (see 73 FR 28321 at 28341).
    On September 26, 2017 (82 FR 44734), EPA approved into the 
Minnesota SIP Minn. R. 7007.3000, which incorporates by reference ``as 
amended'' the Federal PSD rules at 40 CFR 52.21. These Federal PSD 
rules fully satisfy the requirements of CAA section 110(a)(2)(C) 
regarding identification of precursors to PM2.5 and the 
identification of PM2.5 and PM10 condensables. 
EPA therefore proposes that Minnesota has met this set of 
infrastructure SIP requirements of CAA section 110(a)(2)(C) with 
respect to the 1997 ozone, 1997 PM2.5, 2006 
PM2.5, 2008 Pb, 2008 ozone, 2010 NO2, 2010 
SO2, and 2012 PM2.5 NAAQS.
Sub-Element 4: PM2.5 Increments in the PSD Program
    On October 20, 2010 (75 FR 64864), EPA issued the final rule on the 
``Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD) for Particulate Matter 
Less Than 2.5 Micrometers (PM2.5)--Increments, Significant 
Impact Levels (SILs) and Significant Monitoring Concentration (SMC)'' 
(2010 NSR Rule). This rule established several components for making 
PSD permitting determinations for PM2.5, including a system 
of ``increments'' which is the mechanism used to estimate significant 
deterioration of ambient air quality for a pollutant. These increments 
are codified in 40 CFR 51.166(c) and 40 CFR 52.21(c), and are included 
in the table below.

Table 1--PM2.5 Increments Established by the 2010 NSR Rule in Micrograms
                             per Cubic Meter
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                              Annual
                                            arithmetic      24-hour max
                                               mean
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Class I.................................               1               2
Class II................................               4               9
Class III...............................               8              18
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The 2010 NSR Rule also established a new ``major source baseline 
date'' for PM2.5 as October 20, 2010, and a new trigger date 
for PM2.5 as October 20, 2011. These revisions are codified 
in 40 CFR 51.166(b)(14)(i)(c) and (b)(14)(ii)(c), and 40 CFR 
52.21(b)(14)(i)(c) and (b)(14)(ii)(c). Lastly, the 2010 NSR Rule 
revised the definition of ``baseline area'' to include a level of 
significance of 0.3 micrograms per cubic meter, annual average, for 
PM2.5. This change is codified in 40 CFR 51.166(b)(15)(i) 
and 40 CFR 52.21(b)(15)(i).
    On September 26, 2017 (82 FR 44734), EPA approved into the 
Minnesota SIP Minn. R. 7007.3000, which incorporates by reference ``as 
amended'' the Federal PSD rules at 40 CFR 52.21. These Federal PSD 
rules fully satisfy the requirements of CAA section 110(a)(2)(C) 
regarding PM2.5 increments. EPA therefore proposes that 
Minnesota has met this set of infrastructure SIP requirements of CAA 
section 110(a)(2)(C) with respect to the 1997 ozone, 1997 
PM2.5, 2006 PM2.5, 2008 Pb, 2008 ozone, 2010 
NO2, 2010 SO2, and 2012 PM2.5 NAAQS.

[[Page 22916]]

Sub-Element 5: GHG Permitting and the ``Tailoring Rule''

    With respect to CAA sections 110(a)(2)(C) and 110(a)(2)(J), EPA 
interprets the CAA to require each state to make an infrastructure SIP 
submission for a new or revised NAAQS that demonstrates that the air 
agency has a complete PSD permitting program meeting the current 
requirements for all regulated NSR pollutants. The requirements of CAA 
section 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(II) may also be satisfied by demonstrating the 
air agency has a complete PSD permitting program correctly addressing 
all regulated NSR pollutants. Minnesota has shown that it currently has 
a PSD program in place that covers all regulated NSR pollutants, 
including GHGs.
    On June 23, 2014, the United States Supreme Court issued a decision 
addressing the application of PSD permitting requirements to GHG 
emissions. Utility Air Regulatory Group v. Environmental Protection 
Agency, 134 S.Ct. 2427. The Supreme Court said that the EPA may not 
treat GHGs as an air pollutant for purposes of determining whether a 
source is a major source required to obtain a PSD permit. The Court 
also said that the EPA could continue to require that PSD permits, 
otherwise required based on emissions of pollutants other than GHGs, 
contain limitations on GHG emissions based on the application of Best 
Available Control Technology (BACT).
    In accordance with the Supreme Court decision, on April 10, 2015, 
the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit (the 
D.C. Circuit) issued an amended judgment vacating the regulations that 
implemented Step 2 of the EPA's PSD and Title V Greenhouse Gas 
Tailoring Rule, but not the regulations that implement Step 1 of that 
rule. Coalition for Responsible Regulation, Inc. v. EPA, Nos. 09-
1322,10-073,10-1092, and 10-1167 (D.C. Cir., April 10, 2015) (Amended 
Judgement). Step 1 of the Tailoring Rule covers sources that are 
required to obtain a PSD permit based on emissions of pollutants other 
than GHGs. Step 2 applied to sources that emitted only GHGs above the 
thresholds triggering the requirement to obtain a PSD permit. The 
amended judgment preserves, without the need for additional rulemaking 
by the EPA, the application of the BACT requirement to GHG emissions 
from Step 1 or ``anyway'' sources. With respect to Step 2 sources, the 
D.C. Circuit's amended judgment vacated the regulations at issue in the 
litigation, including 40 CFR 51.166(b)(48)(v) and 52.21(b)(49)(v), ``to 
the extent they require a stationary source to obtain a PSD permit if 
greenhouse gases are the only pollutant (i) that the source emits or 
has the potential to emit above the applicable major source thresholds, 
or (ii) for which there is a significant emission increase from a 
modification . . . .'' Id.
    In light of the Supreme Court opinion and subsequent D.C. Circuit 
judgement, EPA took steps to revise Federal PSD rules to be consistent 
with these court decisions. On May 7, 2015 (80 FR 26183), EPA issued a 
final rule that narrowly amended the permit rescission provisions in 
the Federal PSD regulations, and on August 19, 2015 (80 FR 50199), EPA 
issued a final rule that removed several provisions of the PSD and 
title V permitting regulations that were originally promulgated as part 
of the 2010 Tailoring Rule and that were vacated by the D.C. Circuit in 
its April 10, 2015 judgment.
    On September 26, 2017 (82 FR 44734), EPA approved into the 
Minnesota SIP Minn. R. 7007.3000, which incorporates by reference ``as 
amended'' the Federal PSD rules at 40 CFR 52.21. Because EPA's May 7, 
2015, and August 19, 2015, amendments to 40 CFR 52.21 included updates 
to bring the Federal rules into alignment with the Supreme Court 
opinion and the D.C. Circuit's amended judgement, Minnesota is 
currently operating a PSD program that is consistent with both court 
decisions.
    EPA is proposing that Minnesota's SIP is sufficient to satisfy CAA 
sections 110(a)(2)(C), 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(II), and 110(a)(2)(J) with 
respect to GHGs. This is because the PSD permitting program approved by 
EPA into the SIP on September 26, 2017, continues to require that PSD 
permits issued to ``anyway sources'' contain limitations on GHG 
emissions based on the application of BACT.
    For the purposes of infrastructure SIPs, EPA reiterates that NSR 
reform regulations are not within the scope of these actions. 
Therefore, we are not taking action on existing NSR reform regulations 
for Minnesota.
    Certain requirements of CAA section 110(a)(2)(C) overlap with 
requirements of CAA sections 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(II) and 110(a)(2)(J). 
These links will be discussed in the appropriate areas below.
B. CAA Section 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(II)
    CAA section 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(II) requires SIPs to include provisions 
prohibiting any source or other type of emissions activity in one state 
from interfering with measures required to prevent significant 
deterioration of air quality or to protect visibility in another state.
    EPA notes that Minnesota's satisfaction of the applicable 
infrastructure SIP PSD requirements has been detailed in the discussion 
of CAA section 110(a)(2)(C). EPA further notes that the proposed 
actions in that discussion related to PSD are consistent with the 
proposed actions related to PSD for CAA section 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(II), 
and are reiterated below.
    EPA previously approved revisions to Minnesota's SIP to meet 
certain requirements obligated by the Phase 2 Rule and the 2008 NSR 
Rule. These revisions included provisions that: Explicitly identify 
NOX as a precursor to ozone; explicitly identify 
SO2 and NOX as precursors to PM2.5; 
regulate condensable PM2.5 and PM10 in 
applicability determinations; and, establish emissions limits. EPA also 
previously approved revisions to Minnesota's SIP that incorporate the 
PM2.5 increments and the associated implementation 
regulations, including the major source baseline date, trigger date, 
and level of significance for PM2.5, as required by the 2010 
NSR Rule. Therefore, EPA is proposing that Minnesota's SIP contains 
provisions that adequately address the infrastructure requirements for 
the 1997 ozone, 1997 PM2.5, 2006 PM2.5, 2008 Pb, 
2008 ozone, 2010 NO2, 2010 SO2, and 2012 
PM2.5 NAAQS.
    States also have an obligation to ensure that sources located in 
nonattainment areas do not interfere with a neighboring state's PSD 
program. This requirement can be satisfied through an NNSR program 
consistent with the CAA that addresses any pollutants for which there 
is a designated nonattainment area within the state.
    Minnesota's EPA-approved NNSR regulations are contained in Minn. R. 
7007, and are consistent with 40 CFR 51.165 (60 FR 27411, May 24, 
1995). Therefore, EPA proposes that Minnesota has met all of the 
applicable PSD requirements for the 1997 ozone, 1997 PM2.5, 
2006 PM2.5, 2008 Pb, 2008 ozone, 2010 NO2, 2010 
SO2, and 2012 PM2.5 NAAQS related to CAA section 
110(a)(2)(D)(i)(II).

C. CAA Section 110(a)(2)(D)(ii)

    CAA section 110(a)(2)(D)(ii) requires that each SIP contain 
adequate provisions requiring compliance with the applicable 
requirements of CAA sections 126 and 115 (relating to interstate and 
international pollution abatement, respectively).
    CAA section 126(a) requires new or modified sources to notify 
neighboring

[[Page 22917]]

states of potential impacts from the source. The statute does not 
specify the method by which the source should provide the notification. 
States with SIP-approved PSD programs must have a provision requiring 
such notification by new or modified sources. A lack of such a 
requirement in state rules would be grounds for disapproval of this 
element. Minnesota has provisions in its EPA-approved PSD program in 
Minn. R. 7007.3000 requiring new or modified sources to notify 
neighboring states of potential negative air quality impacts, and has 
referenced this program as having adequate provisions to meet the 
requirements of CAA section 126(a). EPA is proposing that Minnesota has 
met the infrastructure SIP requirements of CAA section 126(a) with 
respect to the 1997 ozone, 1997 PM2.5, 2006 
PM2.5, 2008 Pb, 2008 ozone, 2010 NO2, 2010 
SO2, and 2012 PM2.5 NAAQS. Minnesota does not 
have any obligations under any other subsection of CAA section 126, nor 
does it have any pending obligations under CAA section 115. EPA, 
therefore, is proposing that Minnesota has met all applicable 
infrastructure SIP requirements of CAA section 110(a)(2)(D)(ii).

D. CAA Section 110(a)(2)(J)

    The evaluation of Minnesota's submission addressing the 
infrastructure SIP requirements of CAA section 110(a)(2)(J) covers: (i) 
Consultation with government officials; (ii) public notification; (iii) 
PSD; and, (iv) visibility protection.
Sub-Element 1: Consultation With Government Officials
    States must provide a process for consultation with local 
governments and Federal Land Managers (FLMs) carrying out NAAQS 
implementation requirements.
    In our previous rulemakings at 76 FR 41075, 77 FR 65478, 79 FR 
41442, and 80 FR 63450, EPA determined that Minnesota has met the 
consultation with government officials requirements of CAA section 
110(a)(2)(J) with respect to the 1997 ozone, 1997 PM2.5, 
2006 PM2.5, 2008 Pb, 2008 ozone, 2010 NO2, 2010 
SO2, and 2012 PM2.5 NAAQS.
Sub-Element 2: Public Notification
    CAA section 110(a)(2)(J) also requires states to notify the public 
if NAAQS are exceeded in an area and to enhance public awareness of 
measures that can be taken to prevent exceedances.
    In our previous rulemakings at 76 FR 41075, 77 FR 65478, 79 FR 
41442, and 80 FR 63450, EPA determined that Minnesota has met the 
public notification requirements of CAA section 110(a)(2)(J) with 
respect to the 1997 ozone, 1997 PM2.5, 2006 
PM2.5, 2008 Pb, 2008 ozone, 2010 NO2, 2010 
SO2, and 2012 PM2.5 NAAQS.
Sub-Element 3: PSD
    States must meet applicable requirements of CAA section 
110(a)(2)(C) related to PSD. Minnesota's PSD program in the context of 
infrastructure SIPs has already been discussed above in the paragraphs 
addressing CAA sections 110(a)(2)(C) and 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(II), and EPA 
notes that the proposed actions for those CAA sections are consistent 
with the proposed actions for this portion of CAA section 110(a)(2)(J).
    Therefore, EPA proposes that Minnesota has met all of the 
infrastructure SIP requirements for PSD associated with CAA section 
110(a)(2)(D)(J) for the 1997 ozone, 1997 PM2.5, 2006 
PM2.5, 2008 Pb, 2008 ozone, 2010 NO2, 2010 
SO2, and 2012 PM2.5 NAAQS.
Sub-Element 4: Visibility Protection
    With regard to the applicable requirements for visibility 
protection, states are subject to visibility and regional haze program 
requirements under part C of the CAA (which includes CAA sections 169A 
and 169B). In the event of the establishment of a new NAAQS, however, 
the visibility and regional haze program requirements under part C do 
not change. Therefore, no new visibility obligation is ``triggered'' 
under CAA section 110(a)(2)(J) when a new NAAQS becomes effective. In 
other words, the visibility protection requirements of CAA section 
110(a)(2)(J) are not germane to infrastructure SIPs.

IV. What action is EPA taking?

    EPA is proposing to approve a submission from Minnesota certifying 
that its current SIP is sufficient to meet the infrastructure SIP 
requirements relating to PSD, at CAA sections 110(a)(2)(C), 
110(a)(2)(D)(i)(II), 110(a)(2)(D)(ii), and 110(a)(2)(J), for the 1997 
ozone, 1997 PM2.5, 2006 PM2.5, 2008 Pb, 2008 
ozone, 2010 NO2, 2010 SO2, and 2012 
PM2.5 NAAQS.

V. Statutory and Executive Order Reviews

    Under the CAA, the Administrator is required to approve a SIP 
submission that complies with the provisions of the CAA and applicable 
Federal regulations. 42 U.S.C. 7410(k); 40 CFR 52.02(a). Thus, in 
reviewing SIP submissions, EPA's role is to approve state choices, 
provided that they meet the criteria of the CAA. Accordingly, this 
action merely approves state law as meeting Federal requirements and 
does not impose additional requirements beyond those imposed by state 
law. For that reason, this action:
     Is not a significant regulatory action subject to review 
by the Office of Management and Budget under Executive Orders 12866 (58 
FR 51735, October 4, 1993) and 13563 (76 FR 3821, January 21, 2011);
     Is not an Executive Order 13771 (82 FR 9339, February 2, 
2017) regulatory action because SIP approvals are exempted under 
Executive Order 12866;
     Does not impose an information collection burden under the 
provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act (44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.);
     Is certified as not having a significant economic impact 
on a substantial number of small entities under the Regulatory 
Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.);
     Does not contain any unfunded mandate or significantly or 
uniquely affect small governments, as described in the Unfunded 
Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (Pub. L. 104-4);
     Does not have Federalism implications as specified in 
Executive Order 13132 (64 FR 43255, August 10, 1999);
     Is not an economically significant regulatory action based 
on health or safety risks subject to Executive Order 13045 (62 FR 
19885, April 23, 1997);
     Is not a significant regulatory action subject to 
Executive Order 13211 (66 FR 28355, May 22, 2001);
     Is not subject to requirements of section 12(d) of the 
National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act of 1995 (15 U.S.C. 272 
note) because application of those requirements would be inconsistent 
with the CAA; and
     Does not provide EPA with the discretionary authority to 
address, as appropriate, disproportionate human health or environmental 
effects, using practicable and legally permissible methods, under 
Executive Order 12898 (59 FR 7629, February 16, 1994).
    In addition, the SIP is not approved to apply on any Indian 
reservation land or in any other area where EPA or an Indian tribe has 
demonstrated that a tribe has jurisdiction. In those areas of Indian 
country, the rule does not have tribal implications and will not impose 
substantial direct costs on tribal governments or preempt tribal law as 
specified by Executive Order 13175 (65 FR 67249, November 9, 2000).

List of Subjects in 40 CFR Part 52

    Environmental protection, Air pollution control, Incorporation by 
reference, Intergovernmental relations,

[[Page 22918]]

Lead, Nitrogen dioxide, Ozone, Particulate matter, Reporting and 
recordkeeping requirements, Sulfur oxides, Volatile organic compounds.

    Dated: May 4, 2018.
Cathy Stepp,
Regional Administrator, Region 5.
[FR Doc. 2018-10458 Filed 5-16-18; 8:45 am]
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                                                                        Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 96 / Thursday, May 17, 2018 / Proposed Rules                                           22913

                                                  • is not a significant regulatory action             (PM2.5), 2006 PM2.5, 2008 lead (Pb), 2008             I. What is the background of this SIP
                                               subject to Executive Order 13211 (66 FR                 ozone, 2010 nitrogen dioxide (NO2),                   submission?
                                               28355, May 22, 2001);                                   2010 sulfur dioxide (SO2), and 2012                      This rulemaking proposes to approve
                                                  • is not subject to requirements of                  PM2.5 National Ambient Air Quality                    a SIP submission from MPCA dated
                                               Section 12(d) of the National                           Standards (NAAQS). The Minnesota                      October 4, 2016, which addresses
                                               Technology Transfer and Advancement                     Pollution Control Agency (MPCA)                       infrastructure requirements relating to
                                               Act of 1995 (15 U.S.C. 272 note) because                submitted the SIP revision to EPA on                  PSD for the 1997 ozone, 1997 PM2.5,
                                               application of those requirements would                 October 4, 2016.                                      2006 PM2.5, 2008 Pb, 2008 ozone, 2010
                                               be inconsistent with the Clean Air Act;                 DATES: Comments must be received on                   NO2, 2010 SO2, and 2012 PM2.5 NAAQS.
                                               and                                                     or before June 18, 2018.                                 The requirement for states to make
                                                  • does not provide the EPA with the                                                                        infrastructure SIP submissions arises
                                               discretionary authority to address                      ADDRESSES:   Submit your comments,
                                                                                                                                                             out of CAA section 110(a)(1). Pursuant
                                               disproportionate human health or                        identified by Docket ID No. EPA–R05–
                                                                                                                                                             to CAA section 110(a)(1), states must
                                               environmental effects with practical,                   OAR–2016–0603 at http://
                                                                                                                                                             make SIP submissions ‘‘within 3 years
                                               appropriate, and legally permissible                    www.regulations.gov, or via email to
                                                                                                                                                             (or such shorter period as the
                                               methods under Executive Order 12898                     aburano.douglas@epa.gov. For
                                                                                                                                                             Administrator may prescribe) after the
                                               (59 FR 7629, February 16, 1994).                        comments submitted at Regulations.gov,
                                                                                                                                                             promulgation of a national primary
                                                  In addition, the SIP is not approved                 follow the online instructions for
                                                                                                                                                             ambient air quality standard (or any
                                               to apply on any Indian reservation land                 submitting comments. Once submitted,
                                                                                                                                                             revision thereof),’’ and these SIP
                                               or in any other area where the EPA or                   comments cannot be edited or removed
                                                                                                                                                             submissions are to provide for the
                                               an Indian tribe has demonstrated that a                 from Regulations.gov. For either manner
                                                                                                                                                             ‘‘implementation, maintenance, and
                                               tribe has jurisdiction. In those areas of               of submission, EPA may publish any
                                                                                                                                                             enforcement’’ of such NAAQS. The
                                               Indian country, the rule does not have                  comment received to its public docket.
                                                                                                                                                             statute directly imposes on states the
                                               tribal implications and will not impose                 Do not submit electronically any
                                                                                                                                                             duty to make these SIP submissions,
                                               substantial direct costs on tribal                      information you consider to be
                                                                                                                                                             and the requirement to make the
                                               governments or preempt tribal law as                    Confidential Business Information (CBI)
                                                                                                                                                             submissions is not conditioned upon
                                               specified by Executive Order 13175 (65                  or other information whose disclosure is
                                                                                                                                                             EPA’s taking any action other than
                                               FR 67249, November 9, 2000).                            restricted by statute. Multimedia
                                                                                                                                                             promulgating a new or revised NAAQS.
                                                                                                       submissions (audio, video, etc.) must be
                                               List of Subjects in 40 CFR Part 52                                                                            CAA section 110(a)(2) includes a list of
                                                                                                       accompanied by a written comment.
                                                                                                                                                             specific elements that ‘‘[e]ach such
                                                 Environmental protection, Air                         The written comment is considered the
                                                                                                                                                             plan’’ submission must address.
                                               pollution control, Incorporation by                     official comment and should include
                                                                                                                                                                EPA has historically referred to these
                                               reference, Intergovernmental relations,                 discussion of all points you wish to
                                                                                                                                                             SIP submissions made for the purpose
                                               Nitrogen dioxide, Ozone, Particulate                    make. EPA will generally not consider
                                                                                                                                                             of satisfying the requirements of CAA
                                               matter, Reporting and recordkeeping                     comments or comment contents located
                                                                                                                                                             section 110(a)(1) and (2) as
                                               requirements, Volatile organic                          outside of the primary submission (i.e.,
                                                                                                                                                             ‘‘infrastructure SIP’’ submissions.
                                               compounds.                                              on the web, cloud, or other file sharing
                                                                                                                                                             Although the term ‘‘infrastructure SIP’’
                                                                                                       system). For additional submission
                                                  Authority: 42 U.S.C. 7401 et seq.                                                                          does not appear in the CAA, EPA uses
                                                                                                       methods, please contact the person
                                                 Dated: May 8, 2018.                                                                                         the term to distinguish this particular
                                                                                                       identified in the FOR FURTHER
                                               Alexis Strauss,                                                                                               type of SIP submission from
                                                                                                       INFORMATION CONTACT section. For the
                                                                                                                                                             submissions that are intended to satisfy
                                               Acting Regional Administrator, Region IX.               full EPA public comment policy,                       other SIP requirements under the CAA.
                                               [FR Doc. 2018–10571 Filed 5–16–18; 8:45 am]             information about CBI or multimedia                   This specific rulemaking is only taking
                                               BILLING CODE 6560–50–P                                  submissions, and general guidance on                  action on the infrastructure SIP
                                                                                                       making effective comments, please visit               elements relating to PSD, provided at
                                                                                                       http://www2.epa.gov/dockets/                          CAA sections 110(a)(2)(C),
                                               ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION                                commenting-epa-dockets.                               110(a)(2)(D)(i)(II), 110(a)(2)(D)(ii), and
                                               AGENCY
                                                                                                       FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:    Eric              110(a)(2)(J).
                                               40 CFR Part 52                                          Svingen, Environmental Engineer,                         In previous rulemakings, EPA
                                                                                                       Attainment Planning and Maintenance                   addressed Minnesota’s infrastructure
                                               [EPA–R05–OAR–2016–0603; FRL–9978–11–                    Section, Air Programs Branch (AR–18J),                obligations under the various NAAQS.
                                               Region 5]                                               Environmental Protection Agency,                      On July 13, 2011 (76 FR 41075), EPA
                                                                                                       Region 5, 77 West Jackson Boulevard,                  approved most elements of Minnesota’s
                                               Air Plan Approval; Minnesota; PSD
                                                                                                       Chicago, Illinois 60604, (312) 353–4489,              infrastructure SIP submittal for the 1997
                                               Infrastructure SIP Requirements
                                                                                                       svingen.eric@epa.gov.                                 ozone and 1997 PM2.5 NAAQS. On
                                               AGENCY:  Environmental Protection                       SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
                                                                                                                                                             October 29, 2012 (77 FR 65478), EPA
                                               Agency (EPA).                                           Throughout this document whenever                     approved most elements of Minnesota’s
                                               ACTION: Proposed rule.                                  ‘‘we,’’ ‘‘us,’’ or ‘‘our’’ is used, we mean           infrastructure SIP submittal for the 2006
                                                                                                       EPA. This supplementary information                   PM2.5 NAAQS. On July 16, 2014 (79 FR
                                               SUMMARY:  The Environmental Protection                  section is arranged as follows:                       41439), EPA approved most elements of
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                                               Agency (EPA) is proposing to approve                                                                          Minnesota’s infrastructure SIP submittal
                                               elements of a state implementation plan                 I. What is the background of this SIP                 for the 2008 Pb NAAQS. Finally, on
                                               (SIP) submission from Minnesota                              submission?                                      October 20, 2015 (80 FR 63436), EPA
                                                                                                       II. What guidance is EPA using to evaluate
                                               regarding the infrastructure                                 this SIP submission?
                                                                                                                                                             approved most elements of Minnesota’s
                                               requirements of section 110 of the Clean                III. What is the result of EPA’s review of this       infrastructure SIP submittal for the 2008
                                               Air Act (CAA) relating to Prevention of                      SIP submission?                                  ozone, 2010 NO2, 2010 SO2, and 2012
                                               Significant Deterioration (PSD) for the                 IV. What action is EPA taking?                        PM2.5 NAAQS. However, because
                                               1997 ozone, 1997 fine particulate                       V. Statutory and Executive Order Reviews              Minnesota did not have an approved


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                                               22914                    Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 96 / Thursday, May 17, 2018 / Proposed Rules

                                               PSD program at the time of these                        opportunity for public hearing for all                 stationary sources to meet NSR
                                               rulemakings, EPA generally                              infrastructure SIP submissions. MPCA                   requirements under PSD and NNSR
                                               disapproved infrastructure SIP elements                 commenced a public comment period                      programs.
                                               relating to PSD in the rulemakings.1                    on June 20, 2016, and closed the public                  In our previous rulemakings at 76 FR
                                                  MPCA’s submission dated October 4,                   comment period on July 20, 2016.                       41075, 77 FR 65478, 79 FR 41439, and
                                               2016, requested that EPA approve into                   Minnesota received three comments,                     80 FR 634536, EPA determined that
                                               its SIP Minnesota Rule 7007.3000,                       and provided a response to comments in                 Minnesota has met the enforcement of
                                               which incorporates by reference the                     its submittal.                                         SIP measures requirements of CAA
                                               Federal PSD rules at 40 CFR 52.21. On                      Minnesota provided a synopsis of                    section 110(a)(2)(C) with respect to the
                                               July 10, 2017 (82 FR 31741), EPA                        how its SIP meets each of the applicable               1997 ozone, 1997 PM2.5, 2006 PM2.5,
                                               proposed to approve this request, and                   requirements in CAA sections                           2008 Pb, 2008 ozone, 2010 NO2, 2010
                                               on September 26, 2017 (82 FR 44734),                    110(a)(2)(C), 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(II),                     SO2, and 2012 PM2.5 NAAQS.
                                               EPA finalized approval; the change                      110(a)(2)(D)(ii), and 110(a)(2)(J) for the
                                                                                                                                                              Sub-Element 2: PSD Provisions That
                                               became effective on October 26, 2017.                   1997 ozone, 1997 PM2.5, 2006 PM2.5,
                                                                                                                                                              Explicitly Identify NOX as a Precursor to
                                               Therefore, Minnesota is now                             2008 Pb, 2008 ozone, 2010 NO2, 2010
                                                                                                                                                              Ozone in the PSD Program
                                               implementing its own SIP-approved                       SO2, and 2012 PM2.5 NAAQS, as
                                               PSD program.                                            applicable. The following review                          EPA’s ‘‘Final Rule to Implement the 8-
                                                  In this rulemaking, as requested by                  evaluates the state’s submission.                      Hour Ozone National Ambient Air
                                               Minnesota, EPA is proposing to find                                                                            Quality Standard—Phase 2; Final Rule
                                               that Minnesota has satisfied all                        A. CAA Section 110(a)(2)(C)                            to Implement Certain Aspects of the
                                               infrastructure SIP elements relating to                    States are required to include a                    1990 Amendments Relating to New
                                               PSD, at CAA sections 110(a)(2)(C),                      program providing for enforcement of                   Source Review and Prevention of
                                               110(a)(2)(D)(i)(II), 110(a)(2)(D)(ii), and              all SIP measures and the regulation of                 Significant Deterioration as They Apply
                                               110(a)(2)(J), for the 1997 ozone, 1997                  construction of new or modified                        in Carbon Monoxide, Particulate Matter,
                                               PM2.5, 2006 PM2.5, 2008 Pb, 2008 ozone,                 stationary sources to meet new source                  and Ozone NAAQS; Final Rule for
                                               2010 NO2, 2010 SO2, and 2012 PM2.5                      review (NSR) requirements under PSD                    Reformulated Gasoline’’ (Phase 2 Rule)
                                               NAAQS.                                                  and nonattainment NSR (NNSR)                           was published on November 29, 2005
                                                                                                       programs. Part C of the CAA (sections                  (70 FR 71612). Among other
                                               II. What guidance is EPA using to                       160–169B) addresses PSD, while part D                  requirements, the Phase 2 Rule
                                               evaluate this SIP submission?                           of the CAA (sections 171–193) addresses                obligated states to revise their PSD
                                                  EPA’s guidance relating to                           NNSR requirements.                                     programs to explicitly identify NOx as
                                               infrastructure SIP submissions can be                      The evaluation of the state’s                       a precursor to ozone (see 70 FR 71612
                                               found in a guidance document entitled                   submission addressing the                              at 71679, 71699–71704). This
                                               ‘‘Guidance on SIP Elements Required                     infrastructure SIP requirements of CAA                 requirement was codified at 40 CFR
                                               Under Sections 110(a)(1) and (2) for the                section 110(a)(2)(C) covers: (i)                       51.166 and 40 CFR 52.21.
                                               1997 8-hour Ozone and PM2.5 2 National                  Enforcement of SIP measures; (ii) PSD                     The Phase 2 Rule required that states
                                               Ambient Air Quality Standards’’ (2007                   provisions that explicitly identify                    submit SIP revisions incorporating the
                                               Guidance).3 Further guidance is                         oxides of nitrogen (NOX) as a precursor                requirements of the rule, including the
                                               provided in a September 13, 2013,                       to ozone in the PSD program; (iii)                     provisions specific to NOX as a
                                               document entitled ‘‘Guidance on                         identification of precursors to PM2.5 and              precursor to ozone, by June 15, 2007
                                               Infrastructure State Implementation                     the identification of PM2.5 and PM10 5                 (see 70 FR 71612 at 71683).
                                               Plan (SIP) Elements under CAA                           condensables in the PSD program; (iv)                     On September 26, 2017 (82 FR 44734),
                                               Sections 110(a)(1) and (2)’’ (2013                      PM2.5 increments in the PSD program;                   EPA approved into the Minnesota SIP
                                               Guidance).4                                             and, (v) greenhouse gas (GHG)                          Minn. R. 7007.3000, which incorporates
                                                                                                       permitting and the ‘‘Tailoring Rule.’’ 6               by reference ‘‘as amended’’ the Federal
                                               III. What is the result of EPA’s review
                                               of this SIP submission?                                 Sub-Element 1: Enforcement of SIP                      PSD rules at 40 CFR 52.21. These
                                                                                                       Measures                                               Federal PSD rules fully satisfy the
                                                  Pursuant to CAA section 110(a), states                                                                      requirements of CAA section
                                               must provide reasonable notice and                         States are required to include a                    110(a)(2)(C) regarding NOX as a
                                                                                                       program providing for enforcement of                   precursor to ozone. EPA therefore
                                                  1 States may develop and implement their own
                                                                                                       all SIP measures and the regulation of                 proposes that Minnesota has met this set
                                               PSD programs, which are evaluated against EPA’s         construction of new or modified
                                               requirements for each component. States may                                                                    of infrastructure SIP requirements of
                                               alternatively decline to develop their own program,
                                                                                                          5 PM
                                                                                                                                                              CAA section 110(a)(2)(C) with respect to
                                               but instead directly implement Federal PSD rules.                10 refers to particles with an aerodynamic
                                               At the time of the infrastructure rulemakings           diameter of less than or equal to 10 micrometers.      the 1997 ozone, 1997 PM2.5, 2006 PM2.5,
                                               referenced above, Minnesota had chosen to                  6 In EPA’s April 28, 2011, proposed rulemaking      2008 Pb, 2008 ozone, 2010 NO2, 2010
                                               implement the Federally promulgated PSD rules at        for infrastructure SIPs for the 1997 ozone and PM2.5   SO2, and 2012 PM2.5 NAAQS.
                                               40 CFR 52.21, and EPA had delegated to Minnesota        NAAQS, we stated that each state’s PSD program
                                               the authority to implement these regulations. The       must meet applicable requirements for evaluation of    Sub-Element 3: Identification of
                                               Federally promulgated rules satisfied all               all regulated NSR pollutants in PSD permits (see 76    Precursors to PM2.5 and the
                                               infrastructure requirements relating to PSD.            FR 23757 at 23760). This view was reiterated in
                                               However, as a delegated program, these
                                                                                                                                                              Identification of PM2.5 and PM10
                                                                                                       EPA’s August 2, 2012, proposed rulemaking for
                                               infrastructure elements were not approved into the      infrastructure SIPs for the 2006 PM2.5 NAAQS (see      Condensables in the PSD Program
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                                               Minnesota SIP.                                          77 FR 45992 at 45998). In other words, if a state         On May 16, 2008 (73 FR 28321), EPA
                                                  2 PM
                                                       2.5 refers to particles with an aerodynamic     lacks provisions needed to adequately address NOx
                                               diameter of less than or equal to 2.5 micrometers,      as a precursor to ozone, PM2.5 precursors, PM2.5 and
                                                                                                                                                              issued the Final Rule on the
                                               oftentimes referred to as ‘‘fine’’ particles.           PM10 condensables, PM2.5 increments, or the            ‘‘Implementation of the New Source
                                                  3 https://www3.epa.gov/ttn/naaqs/aqmguide/           Federal GHG permitting thresholds, the provisions      Review (NSR) Program for Particulate
                                               collection/cp2/20071002_harnett_110(a)_sip_             of CAA section 110(a)(2)(C) requiring a suitable PSD   Matter Less than 2.5 Micrometers
                                               guidance.pdf.                                           permitting program must be considered not to be
                                                  4 https://www3.epa.gov/airquality/urbanair/          met irrespective of the NAAQS that triggered the
                                                                                                                                                              (PM2.5)’’ (2008 NSR Rule). The 2008
                                               sipstatus/docs/Guidance_on_Infrastructure_SIP_          requirement to submit an infrastructure SIP,           NSR Rule finalized several new
                                               Elements_Multipollutant_FINAL_Sept_2013.pdf.            including the 2012 PM2.5 NAAQS.                        requirements for SIPs to address sources


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                                                                                  Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 96 / Thursday, May 17, 2018 / Proposed Rules                                                                                       22915

                                               that emit direct PM2.5 and other                                             51.166(b)(23)(i) and 40 CFR                                                  by reference ‘‘as amended’’ the Federal
                                               pollutants that contribute to secondary                                      52.21(b)(23)(i) define ‘‘significant’’ for                                   PSD rules at 40 CFR 52.21. These
                                               PM2.5 formation. One of these                                                PM2.5 to mean the following emissions                                        Federal PSD rules fully satisfy the
                                               requirements is for NSR permits to                                           rates: 10 tons per year (tpy) of direct                                      requirements of CAA section
                                               address pollutants responsible for the                                       PM2.5; 40 tpy of SO2; and 40 tpy of NOX                                      110(a)(2)(C) regarding identification of
                                               secondary formation of PM2.5, otherwise                                      (unless the state demonstrates to the                                        precursors to PM2.5 and the
                                               known as precursors. In this rule, EPA                                       Administrator’s satisfaction or EPA                                          identification of PM2.5 and PM10
                                               identified precursors to PM2.5 for the                                       demonstrates that NOX emissions in an                                        condensables. EPA therefore proposes
                                               PSD program to be SO2 and NOX (unless                                        area are not a significant contributor to                                    that Minnesota has met this set of
                                               the state demonstrates to the                                                that area’s ambient PM2.5                                                    infrastructure SIP requirements of CAA
                                               Administrator’s satisfaction or EPA                                          concentrations). The deadline for states                                     section 110(a)(2)(C) with respect to the
                                               demonstrates that NOX emissions in an                                        to submit SIP revisions to their PSD                                         1997 ozone, 1997 PM2.5, 2006 PM2.5,
                                               area are not a significant contributor to                                    programs incorporating these changes                                         2008 Pb, 2008 ozone, 2010 NO2, 2010
                                               that area’s ambient PM2.5                                                    was May 16, 2011 (see 73 FR 28321 at                                         SO2, and 2012 PM2.5 NAAQS.
                                               concentrations). The 2008 NSR Rule                                           28341).7
                                               also specifies that volatile organic                                            The 2008 NSR Rule did not require                                         Sub-Element 4: PM2.5 Increments in the
                                               compounds (VOCs) are not considered                                          states to immediately account for gases                                      PSD Program
                                               to be precursors to PM2.5 in the PSD                                         that could condense to form particulate
                                                                                                                            matter, known as condensables, in PM2.5                                         On October 20, 2010 (75 FR 64864),
                                               program unless the state demonstrates                                                                                                                     EPA issued the final rule on the
                                               to the Administrator’s satisfaction or                                       and PM10 emission limits in NSR
                                                                                                                            permits. Instead, EPA determined that                                        ‘‘Prevention of Significant Deterioration
                                               EPA demonstrates that emissions of                                                                                                                        (PSD) for Particulate Matter Less Than
                                                                                                                            states had to account for PM2.5 and PM10
                                               VOCs in an area are significant                                                                                                                           2.5 Micrometers (PM2.5)—Increments,
                                                                                                                            condensables for applicability
                                               contributors to that area’s ambient PM2.5                                                                                                                 Significant Impact Levels (SILs) and
                                                                                                                            determinations and in establishing
                                               concentrations.                                                                                                                                           Significant Monitoring Concentration
                                                                                                                            emissions limitations for PM2.5 and
                                                 The explicit references to SO2, NOX,                                       PM10 in PSD permits beginning on or                                          (SMC)’’ (2010 NSR Rule). This rule
                                               and VOCs as they pertain to secondary                                        after January 1, 2011. This requirement                                      established several components for
                                               PM2.5 formation are codified at 40 CFR                                       is codified in 40 CFR 51.166(b)(49)(i)(a)                                    making PSD permitting determinations
                                               51.166(b)(49)(i)(b) and 40 CFR                                               and 40 CFR 52.21(b)(50)(i)(a). Revisions                                     for PM2.5, including a system of
                                               52.21(b)(50)(i)(b). As part of identifying                                   to states’ PSD programs incorporating                                        ‘‘increments’’ which is the mechanism
                                               pollutants that are precursors to PM2.5,                                     the inclusion of condensables were                                           used to estimate significant
                                               the 2008 NSR Rule also required states                                       required to be submitted to EPA by May                                       deterioration of ambient air quality for
                                               to revise the definition of ‘‘significant’’                                  16, 2011 (see 73 FR 28321 at 28341).                                         a pollutant. These increments are
                                               as it relates to a net emissions increase                                       On September 26, 2017 (82 FR 44734),                                      codified in 40 CFR 51.166(c) and 40
                                               or the potential of a source to emit                                         EPA approved into the Minnesota SIP                                          CFR 52.21(c), and are included in the
                                               pollutants. Specifically, 40 CFR                                             Minn. R. 7007.3000, which incorporates                                       table below.

                                                              TABLE 1—PM2.5 INCREMENTS ESTABLISHED BY THE 2010 NSR RULE IN MICROGRAMS PER CUBIC METER
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 Annual
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                arithmetic       24-hour max
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  mean

                                               Class I ......................................................................................................................................................................                1             2
                                               Class II .....................................................................................................................................................................                4             9
                                               Class III ....................................................................................................................................................................                8            18



                                                  The 2010 NSR Rule also established a                                      micrograms per cubic meter, annual                                           requirements of CAA section
                                               new ‘‘major source baseline date’’ for                                       average, for PM2.5. This change is                                           110(a)(2)(C) regarding PM2.5 increments.
                                               PM2.5 as October 20, 2010, and a new                                         codified in 40 CFR 51.166(b)(15)(i) and                                      EPA therefore proposes that Minnesota
                                               trigger date for PM2.5 as October 20,                                        40 CFR 52.21(b)(15)(i).                                                      has met this set of infrastructure SIP
                                               2011. These revisions are codified in 40                                       On September 26, 2017 (82 FR 44734),                                       requirements of CAA section
                                               CFR 51.166(b)(14)(i)(c) and (b)(14)(ii)(c),                                  EPA approved into the Minnesota SIP                                          110(a)(2)(C) with respect to the 1997
                                               and 40 CFR 52.21(b)(14)(i)(c) and                                            Minn. R. 7007.3000, which incorporates                                       ozone, 1997 PM2.5, 2006 PM2.5, 2008 Pb,
                                               (b)(14)(ii)(c). Lastly, the 2010 NSR Rule                                    by reference ‘‘as amended’’ the Federal                                      2008 ozone, 2010 NO2, 2010 SO2, and
                                               revised the definition of ‘‘baseline area’’                                  PSD rules at 40 CFR 52.21. These                                             2012 PM2.5 NAAQS.
                                               to include a level of significance of 0.3                                    Federal PSD rules fully satisfy the
                                                 7 EPA notes that on January 4, 2013, the U.S.                              unclassifiable areas to be affected by the court’s                           also does not affect EPA’s action on the present
                                               Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit, in Natural                            opinion. Moreover, EPA does not anticipate the                               infrastructure action. EPA interprets the CAA to
                                               Resources Defense Council v. EPA, 706 F.3d 428                               need to revise any PSD requirements promulgated                              exclude nonattainment area requirements,
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                                               (D.C. Cir.), held that EPA should have issued the                            by the 2008 NSR Rule in order to comply with the                             including requirements associated with a
                                               2008 NSR Rule in accordance with the CAA’s                                   court’s decision. Accordingly, EPA’s approval of                             nonattainment NSR program, from infrastructure
                                               requirements for PM10 nonattainment areas (Title I,                          Minnesota’s infrastructure SIP as to elements
                                                                                                                                                                                                         SIP submissions due three years after adoption or
                                               Part D, subpart 4), and not the general requirements                         relating to PSD, provided at CAA sections
                                                                                                                                                                                                         revision of a NAAQS. Instead, these elements are
                                               for nonattainment areas under subpart 1 (Natural                             110(a)(2)(C), 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(II), 110(a)(2)(D)(ii), and
                                               Resources Defense Council v. EPA, No. 08–1250).                              110(a)(2)(J), with respect to the PSD requirements                           typically referred to as nonattainment SIP or
                                               As the subpart 4 provisions apply only to                                    promulgated by the 2008 NSR Rule, does not                                   attainment plan elements, which would be due by
                                               nonattainment areas, EPA does not consider the                               conflict with the court’s opinion. The Court’s                               the dates statutorily prescribed under subpart 2
                                               portions of the 2008 NSR Rule that address                                   decision with respect to the nonattainment NSR                               through 5 under part D, extending as far as 10 years
                                               requirements for PM2.5 attainment and                                        requirements promulgated by the 2008 NSR Rule                                following designations for some elements.



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                                               22916                    Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 96 / Thursday, May 17, 2018 / Proposed Rules

                                               Sub-Element 5: GHG Permitting and the                   the extent they require a stationary                  quality or to protect visibility in another
                                               ‘‘Tailoring Rule’’                                      source to obtain a PSD permit if                      state.
                                                  With respect to CAA sections                         greenhouse gases are the only pollutant                 EPA notes that Minnesota’s
                                               110(a)(2)(C) and 110(a)(2)(J), EPA                      (i) that the source emits or has the                  satisfaction of the applicable
                                                                                                       potential to emit above the applicable                infrastructure SIP PSD requirements has
                                               interprets the CAA to require each state
                                                                                                       major source thresholds, or (ii) for                  been detailed in the discussion of CAA
                                               to make an infrastructure SIP
                                                                                                       which there is a significant emission                 section 110(a)(2)(C). EPA further notes
                                               submission for a new or revised NAAQS
                                                                                                       increase from a modification . . . .’’ Id.            that the proposed actions in that
                                               that demonstrates that the air agency
                                                                                                          In light of the Supreme Court opinion              discussion related to PSD are consistent
                                               has a complete PSD permitting program
                                                                                                       and subsequent D.C. Circuit judgement,                with the proposed actions related to
                                               meeting the current requirements for all
                                                                                                       EPA took steps to revise Federal PSD                  PSD for CAA section 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(II),
                                               regulated NSR pollutants. The
                                                                                                       rules to be consistent with these court               and are reiterated below.
                                               requirements of CAA section                                                                                     EPA previously approved revisions to
                                               110(a)(2)(D)(i)(II) may also be satisfied               decisions. On May 7, 2015 (80 FR
                                                                                                       26183), EPA issued a final rule that                  Minnesota’s SIP to meet certain
                                               by demonstrating the air agency has a                                                                         requirements obligated by the Phase 2
                                               complete PSD permitting program                         narrowly amended the permit rescission
                                                                                                       provisions in the Federal PSD                         Rule and the 2008 NSR Rule. These
                                               correctly addressing all regulated NSR                                                                        revisions included provisions that:
                                               pollutants. Minnesota has shown that it                 regulations, and on August 19, 2015 (80
                                                                                                       FR 50199), EPA issued a final rule that               Explicitly identify NOX as a precursor to
                                               currently has a PSD program in place                                                                          ozone; explicitly identify SO2 and NOX
                                               that covers all regulated NSR pollutants,               removed several provisions of the PSD
                                                                                                       and title V permitting regulations that               as precursors to PM2.5; regulate
                                               including GHGs.                                                                                               condensable PM2.5 and PM10 in
                                                  On June 23, 2014, the United States                  were originally promulgated as part of
                                                                                                       the 2010 Tailoring Rule and that were                 applicability determinations; and,
                                               Supreme Court issued a decision                                                                               establish emissions limits. EPA also
                                               addressing the application of PSD                       vacated by the D.C. Circuit in its April
                                                                                                       10, 2015 judgment.                                    previously approved revisions to
                                               permitting requirements to GHG                                                                                Minnesota’s SIP that incorporate the
                                               emissions. Utility Air Regulatory Group                    On September 26, 2017 (82 FR 44734),
                                                                                                                                                             PM2.5 increments and the associated
                                               v. Environmental Protection Agency,                     EPA approved into the Minnesota SIP
                                                                                                                                                             implementation regulations, including
                                               134 S.Ct. 2427. The Supreme Court said                  Minn. R. 7007.3000, which incorporates
                                                                                                                                                             the major source baseline date, trigger
                                               that the EPA may not treat GHGs as an                   by reference ‘‘as amended’’ the Federal
                                                                                                                                                             date, and level of significance for PM2.5,
                                               air pollutant for purposes of                           PSD rules at 40 CFR 52.21. Because
                                                                                                                                                             as required by the 2010 NSR Rule.
                                               determining whether a source is a major                 EPA’s May 7, 2015, and August 19,
                                                                                                                                                             Therefore, EPA is proposing that
                                               source required to obtain a PSD permit.                 2015, amendments to 40 CFR 52.21
                                                                                                                                                             Minnesota’s SIP contains provisions
                                               The Court also said that the EPA could                  included updates to bring the Federal
                                                                                                                                                             that adequately address the
                                               continue to require that PSD permits,                   rules into alignment with the Supreme
                                                                                                                                                             infrastructure requirements for the 1997
                                               otherwise required based on emissions                   Court opinion and the D.C. Circuit’s
                                                                                                                                                             ozone, 1997 PM2.5, 2006 PM2.5, 2008 Pb,
                                               of pollutants other than GHGs, contain                  amended judgement, Minnesota is
                                                                                                                                                             2008 ozone, 2010 NO2, 2010 SO2, and
                                               limitations on GHG emissions based on                   currently operating a PSD program that
                                                                                                                                                             2012 PM2.5 NAAQS.
                                               the application of Best Available                       is consistent with both court decisions.
                                                                                                                                                               States also have an obligation to
                                               Control Technology (BACT).                                 EPA is proposing that Minnesota’s SIP              ensure that sources located in
                                                  In accordance with the Supreme                       is sufficient to satisfy CAA sections                 nonattainment areas do not interfere
                                               Court decision, on April 10, 2015, the                  110(a)(2)(C), 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(II), and                with a neighboring state’s PSD program.
                                               U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of               110(a)(2)(J) with respect to GHGs. This               This requirement can be satisfied
                                               Columbia Circuit (the D.C. Circuit)                     is because the PSD permitting program                 through an NNSR program consistent
                                               issued an amended judgment vacating                     approved by EPA into the SIP on                       with the CAA that addresses any
                                               the regulations that implemented Step 2                 September 26, 2017, continues to                      pollutants for which there is a
                                               of the EPA’s PSD and Title V                            require that PSD permits issued to                    designated nonattainment area within
                                               Greenhouse Gas Tailoring Rule, but not                  ‘‘anyway sources’’ contain limitations                the state.
                                               the regulations that implement Step 1 of                on GHG emissions based on the                           Minnesota’s EPA-approved NNSR
                                               that rule. Coalition for Responsible                    application of BACT.                                  regulations are contained in Minn. R.
                                               Regulation, Inc. v. EPA, Nos. 09–                          For the purposes of infrastructure                 7007, and are consistent with 40 CFR
                                               1322,10–073,10–1092, and 10–1167                        SIPs, EPA reiterates that NSR reform                  51.165 (60 FR 27411, May 24, 1995).
                                               (D.C. Cir., April 10, 2015) (Amended                    regulations are not within the scope of               Therefore, EPA proposes that Minnesota
                                               Judgement). Step 1 of the Tailoring Rule                these actions. Therefore, we are not                  has met all of the applicable PSD
                                               covers sources that are required to                     taking action on existing NSR reform                  requirements for the 1997 ozone, 1997
                                               obtain a PSD permit based on emissions                  regulations for Minnesota.                            PM2.5, 2006 PM2.5, 2008 Pb, 2008 ozone,
                                               of pollutants other than GHGs. Step 2                      Certain requirements of CAA section                2010 NO2, 2010 SO2, and 2012 PM2.5
                                               applied to sources that emitted only                    110(a)(2)(C) overlap with requirements                NAAQS related to CAA section
                                               GHGs above the thresholds triggering                    of CAA sections 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(II) and               110(a)(2)(D)(i)(II).
                                               the requirement to obtain a PSD permit.                 110(a)(2)(J). These links will be
                                               The amended judgment preserves,                         discussed in the appropriate areas                    C. CAA Section 110(a)(2)(D)(ii)
                                               without the need for additional                         below.                                                  CAA section 110(a)(2)(D)(ii) requires
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                                               rulemaking by the EPA, the application                                                                        that each SIP contain adequate
                                                                                                       B. CAA Section 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(II)
                                               of the BACT requirement to GHG                                                                                provisions requiring compliance with
                                               emissions from Step 1 or ‘‘anyway’’                       CAA section 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(II)                     the applicable requirements of CAA
                                               sources. With respect to Step 2 sources,                requires SIPs to include provisions                   sections 126 and 115 (relating to
                                               the D.C. Circuit’s amended judgment                     prohibiting any source or other type of               interstate and international pollution
                                               vacated the regulations at issue in the                 emissions activity in one state from                  abatement, respectively).
                                               litigation, including 40 CFR                            interfering with measures required to                   CAA section 126(a) requires new or
                                               51.166(b)(48)(v) and 52.21(b)(49)(v), ‘‘to              prevent significant deterioration of air              modified sources to notify neighboring


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                                                                        Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 96 / Thursday, May 17, 2018 / Proposed Rules                                            22917

                                               states of potential impacts from the                    section 110(a)(2)(J) with respect to the              merely approves state law as meeting
                                               source. The statute does not specify the                1997 ozone, 1997 PM2.5, 2006 PM2.5,                   Federal requirements and does not
                                               method by which the source should                       2008 Pb, 2008 ozone, 2010 NO2, 2010                   impose additional requirements beyond
                                               provide the notification. States with                   SO2, and 2012 PM2.5 NAAQS.                            those imposed by state law. For that
                                               SIP-approved PSD programs must have                                                                           reason, this action:
                                                                                                       Sub-Element 3: PSD                                       • Is not a significant regulatory action
                                               a provision requiring such notification
                                               by new or modified sources. A lack of                     States must meet applicable                         subject to review by the Office of
                                               such a requirement in state rules would                 requirements of CAA section                           Management and Budget under
                                               be grounds for disapproval of this                      110(a)(2)(C) related to PSD. Minnesota’s              Executive Orders 12866 (58 FR 51735,
                                               element. Minnesota has provisions in its                PSD program in the context of                         October 4, 1993) and 13563 (76 FR 3821,
                                               EPA-approved PSD program in Minn. R.                    infrastructure SIPs has already been                  January 21, 2011);
                                               7007.3000 requiring new or modified                     discussed above in the paragraphs                        • Is not an Executive Order 13771 (82
                                               sources to notify neighboring states of                 addressing CAA sections 110(a)(2)(C)                  FR 9339, February 2, 2017) regulatory
                                               potential negative air quality impacts,                 and 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(II), and EPA notes                action because SIP approvals are
                                               and has referenced this program as                      that the proposed actions for those CAA               exempted under Executive Order 12866;
                                               having adequate provisions to meet the                  sections are consistent with the                         • Does not impose an information
                                               requirements of CAA section 126(a).                     proposed actions for this portion of                  collection burden under the provisions
                                               EPA is proposing that Minnesota has                     CAA section 110(a)(2)(J).                             of the Paperwork Reduction Act (44
                                               met the infrastructure SIP requirements                   Therefore, EPA proposes that                        U.S.C. 3501 et seq.);
                                               of CAA section 126(a) with respect to                   Minnesota has met all of the                             • Is certified as not having a
                                               the 1997 ozone, 1997 PM2.5, 2006 PM2.5,                 infrastructure SIP requirements for PSD               significant economic impact on a
                                               2008 Pb, 2008 ozone, 2010 NO2, 2010                     associated with CAA section                           substantial number of small entities
                                               SO2, and 2012 PM2.5 NAAQS.                              110(a)(2)(D)(J) for the 1997 ozone, 1997              under the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5
                                               Minnesota does not have any                             PM2.5, 2006 PM2.5, 2008 Pb, 2008 ozone,               U.S.C. 601 et seq.);
                                               obligations under any other subsection                  2010 NO2, 2010 SO2, and 2012 PM2.5                       • Does not contain any unfunded
                                               of CAA section 126, nor does it have                    NAAQS.                                                mandate or significantly or uniquely
                                               any pending obligations under CAA                                                                             affect small governments, as described
                                                                                                       Sub-Element 4: Visibility Protection
                                               section 115. EPA, therefore, is proposing                                                                     in the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act
                                               that Minnesota has met all applicable                      With regard to the applicable                      of 1995 (Pub. L. 104–4);
                                               infrastructure SIP requirements of CAA                  requirements for visibility protection,                  • Does not have Federalism
                                               section 110(a)(2)(D)(ii).                               states are subject to visibility and                  implications as specified in Executive
                                                                                                       regional haze program requirements                    Order 13132 (64 FR 43255, August 10,
                                               D. CAA Section 110(a)(2)(J)                             under part C of the CAA (which                        1999);
                                                  The evaluation of Minnesota’s                        includes CAA sections 169A and 169B).                    • Is not an economically significant
                                               submission addressing the                               In the event of the establishment of a                regulatory action based on health or
                                               infrastructure SIP requirements of CAA                  new NAAQS, however, the visibility                    safety risks subject to Executive Order
                                               section 110(a)(2)(J) covers: (i)                        and regional haze program requirements                13045 (62 FR 19885, April 23, 1997);
                                               Consultation with government officials;                 under part C do not change. Therefore,                   • Is not a significant regulatory action
                                               (ii) public notification; (iii) PSD; and,               no new visibility obligation is                       subject to Executive Order 13211 (66 FR
                                               (iv) visibility protection.                             ‘‘triggered’’ under CAA section                       28355, May 22, 2001);
                                                                                                       110(a)(2)(J) when a new NAAQS                            • Is not subject to requirements of
                                               Sub-Element 1: Consultation With                        becomes effective. In other words, the                section 12(d) of the National
                                               Government Officials                                    visibility protection requirements of                 Technology Transfer and Advancement
                                                 States must provide a process for                     CAA section 110(a)(2)(J) are not                      Act of 1995 (15 U.S.C. 272 note) because
                                               consultation with local governments                     germane to infrastructure SIPs.                       application of those requirements would
                                               and Federal Land Managers (FLMs)                                                                              be inconsistent with the CAA; and
                                                                                                       IV. What action is EPA taking?                           • Does not provide EPA with the
                                               carrying out NAAQS implementation
                                               requirements.                                             EPA is proposing to approve a                       discretionary authority to address, as
                                                 In our previous rulemakings at 76 FR                  submission from Minnesota certifying                  appropriate, disproportionate human
                                               41075, 77 FR 65478, 79 FR 41442, and                    that its current SIP is sufficient to meet            health or environmental effects, using
                                               80 FR 63450, EPA determined that                        the infrastructure SIP requirements                   practicable and legally permissible
                                               Minnesota has met the consultation                      relating to PSD, at CAA sections                      methods, under Executive Order 12898
                                               with government officials requirements                  110(a)(2)(C), 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(II),                    (59 FR 7629, February 16, 1994).
                                               of CAA section 110(a)(2)(J) with respect                110(a)(2)(D)(ii), and 110(a)(2)(J), for the              In addition, the SIP is not approved
                                               to the 1997 ozone, 1997 PM2.5, 2006                     1997 ozone, 1997 PM2.5, 2006 PM2.5,                   to apply on any Indian reservation land
                                               PM2.5, 2008 Pb, 2008 ozone, 2010 NO2,                   2008 Pb, 2008 ozone, 2010 NO2, 2010                   or in any other area where EPA or an
                                               2010 SO2, and 2012 PM2.5 NAAQS.                         SO2, and 2012 PM2.5 NAAQS.                            Indian tribe has demonstrated that a
                                                                                                                                                             tribe has jurisdiction. In those areas of
                                               Sub-Element 2: Public Notification                      V. Statutory and Executive Order
                                                                                                                                                             Indian country, the rule does not have
                                                 CAA section 110(a)(2)(J) also requires                Reviews
                                                                                                                                                             tribal implications and will not impose
                                               states to notify the public if NAAQS are                  Under the CAA, the Administrator is                 substantial direct costs on tribal
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                                               exceeded in an area and to enhance                      required to approve a SIP submission                  governments or preempt tribal law as
                                               public awareness of measures that can                   that complies with the provisions of the              specified by Executive Order 13175 (65
                                               be taken to prevent exceedances.                        CAA and applicable Federal regulations.               FR 67249, November 9, 2000).
                                                 In our previous rulemakings at 76 FR                  42 U.S.C. 7410(k); 40 CFR 52.02(a).
                                               41075, 77 FR 65478, 79 FR 41442, and                    Thus, in reviewing SIP submissions,                   List of Subjects in 40 CFR Part 52
                                               80 FR 63450, EPA determined that                        EPA’s role is to approve state choices,                 Environmental protection, Air
                                               Minnesota has met the public                            provided that they meet the criteria of               pollution control, Incorporation by
                                               notification requirements of CAA                        the CAA. Accordingly, this action                     reference, Intergovernmental relations,


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                                               22918                           Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 96 / Thursday, May 17, 2018 / Proposed Rules

                                               Lead, Nitrogen dioxide, Ozone,                                         ACTION:      Proposed rule.                                         health and environmental risks
                                               Particulate matter, Reporting and                                                                                                          associated with the site and to
                                               recordkeeping requirements, Sulfur                                     SUMMARY:   The Comprehensive                                        determine what CERCLA-financed
                                               oxides, Volatile organic compounds.                                    Environmental Response,                                             remedial action(s), if any, may be
                                                                                                                      Compensation, and Liability Act                                     appropriate. This rule proposes to add
                                                 Dated: May 4, 2018.
                                                                                                                      (‘‘CERCLA’’ or ‘‘the Act’’), as amended,                            three sites to the General Superfund
                                               Cathy Stepp,
                                                                                                                      requires that the National Oil and                                  section of the NPL.
                                               Regional Administrator, Region 5.                                      Hazardous Substances Pollution
                                               [FR Doc. 2018–10458 Filed 5–16–18; 8:45 am]                            Contingency Plan (‘‘NCP’’) include a list                           DATES:Comments regarding any of these
                                               BILLING CODE 6560–50–P                                                 of national priorities among the known                              proposed listings must be submitted
                                                                                                                      releases or threatened releases of                                  (postmarked) on or before July 16, 2018.
                                                                                                                      hazardous substances, pollutants or
                                               ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION                                                                                                                   ADDRESSES:Identify the appropriate
                                                                                                                      contaminants throughout the United
                                               AGENCY                                                                 States. The National Priorities List                                docket number from the table below.
                                               40 CFR Part 300                                                        (‘‘NPL’’) constitutes this list. The NPL is
                                                                                                                      intended primarily to guide the
                                               [EPA–HQ–OLEM–2018–0252, 0253, and                                      Environmental Protection Agency
                                               0254; FRL–9978–13–OLEM]                                                (‘‘EPA’’ or ‘‘the agency’’) in determining
                                                                                                                      which sites warrant further
                                               National Priorities List
                                                                                                                      investigation. These further
                                               AGENCY: Environmental Protection                                       investigations will allow the EPA to
                                               Agency (EPA).                                                          assess the nature and extent of public

                                                                                                                   DOCKET IDENTIFICATION NUMBERS BY SITE
                                                                                           Site name                                                                  City/county, state                            Docket ID

                                               Donnelsville Contaminated Aquifer ..........................................................               Donnelsville, OH .............................    EPA–HQ–OLEM–2018–0252.
                                               PROTECO ................................................................................................   Peñuelas, PR .................................   EPA–HQ–OLEM–2018–0253.
                                               Delfasco Forge .........................................................................................   Grand Prairie, TX ...........................     EPA–HQ–OLEM–2018–0254.



                                                 Submit your comments, identified by                                     Use the Docket Center address below                                 E. What happens to sites on the NPL?
                                               the appropriate docket number, at                                      if you are using express mail,                                         F. Does the NPL define the boundaries of
                                               https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the                                commercial delivery, hand delivery or                                     sites?
                                                                                                                                                                                             G. How are sites removed from the NPL?
                                               online instructions for submitting                                     courier. Delivery verification signatures
                                                                                                                                                                                             H. May the EPA delete portions of sites
                                               comments. Once submitted, comments                                     will be available only during regular                                     from the NPL as they are cleaned up?
                                               cannot be edited or removed from                                       business hours: EPA Superfund Docket                                   I. What is the Construction Completion List
                                               Regulations.gov. The EPA may publish                                   Center, WJC West Building, Room 3334,                                     (CCL)?
                                               any comment received to its public                                     1301 Constitution Avenue NW,                                           J. What is the Sitewide Ready for
                                               docket. Do not submit electronically any                               Washington, DC 20004.                                                     Anticipated Use measure?
                                               information you consider to be                                            For additional docket addresses and                                 K. What is state/tribal correspondence
                                                                                                                      further details on their contents, see                                    concerning NPL listing?
                                               Confidential Business Information (CBI)
                                                                                                                      section II, ‘‘Public Review/Public                                  II. Public Review/Public Comment
                                               or other information whose disclosure is                                                                                                      A. May I review the documents relevant to
                                               restricted by statute. Multimedia                                      Comment,’’ of the SUPPLEMENTARY                                           this proposed rule?
                                               submissions (audio, video, etc.) must be                               INFORMATION portion of this preamble.                                  B. How do I access the documents?
                                               accompanied by a written comment.                                      FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:                                       C. What documents are available for public
                                               The written comment is considered the                                  Terry Jeng, phone: (703) 603–8852,                                        review at the EPA Headquarters docket?
                                               official comment and should include                                    email: jeng.terry@epa.gov, Site                                        D. What documents are available for public
                                               discussion of all points you wish to                                   Assessment and Remedy Decisions                                           review at the EPA regional dockets?
                                                                                                                      Branch, Assessment and Remediation                                     E. How do I submit my comments?
                                               make. The EPA will generally not                                                                                                              F. What happens to my comments?
                                               consider comments or comment                                           Division, Office of Superfund                                          G. What should I consider when preparing
                                               contents located outside of the primary                                Remediation and Technology                                                my comments?
                                               submission (i.e., on the web, cloud, or                                Innovation (Mailcode 5204P), U.S.                                      H. May I submit comments after the public
                                               other file sharing system). For                                        Environmental Protection Agency, 1200                                     comment period is over?
                                               additional submission methods, the full                                Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington,                                    I. May I view public comments submitted
                                               EPA public comment policy,                                             DC 20460; or the Superfund Hotline,                                       by others?
                                               information about CBI or multimedia                                    phone (800) 424–9346 or (703) 412–                                     J. May I submit comments regarding sites
                                                                                                                      9810 in the Washington, DC,                                               not currently proposed to the NPL?
                                               submissions, and general guidance on                                                                                                       III. Contents of This Proposed Rule
                                               making effective comments, please visit                                metropolitan area.
                                                                                                                                                                                             A. Proposed additions to the NPL
                                               https://www.epa.gov/dockets/                                           SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
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                                                                                                                                                                                          IV. Statutory and Executive Order Reviews
                                               commenting-epa-dockets.                                                                                                                       A. Executive Order 12866: Regulatory
                                                                                                                      Table of Contents
                                                 To send a comment via the United                                                                                                               Planning and Review and Executive
                                                                                                                      I. Background                                                             Order 13563: Improving Regulation and
                                               States Postal Service, use the following                                  A. What are CERCLA and SARA?                                           Regulatory Review
                                               address: U.S. Environmental Protection                                    B. What is the NCP?                                                 B. Executive Order 13771: Reducing
                                               Agency, EPA Superfund Docket Center,                                      C. What is the National Priorities List                                Regulation and Controlling Regulatory
                                               Mailcode 28221T, 1200 Pennsylvania                                          (NPL)?                                                               Costs
                                               Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20460.                                          D. How are sites listed on the NPL?                                 C. Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA)



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Document Created: 2018-05-17 00:50:42
Document Modified: 2018-05-17 00:50:42
CategoryRegulatory Information
CollectionFederal Register
sudoc ClassAE 2.7:
GS 4.107:
AE 2.106:
PublisherOffice of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration
SectionProposed Rules
ActionProposed rule.
DatesComments must be received on or before June 18, 2018.
ContactEric Svingen, Environmental Engineer, Attainment Planning and Maintenance Section, Air Programs Branch (AR- 18J), Environmental Protection Agency, Region 5, 77 West Jackson Boulevard, Chicago, Illinois 60604, (312) 353-4489, [email protected]
FR Citation83 FR 22913 
CFR AssociatedEnvironmental Protection; Air Pollution Control; Incorporation by Reference; Intergovernmental Relations; Lead; Nitrogen Dioxide; Ozone; Particulate Matter; Reporting and Recordkeeping Requirements; Sulfur Oxides and Volatile Organic Compounds

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