Golden State Today

California Attorney General Rob Bonta, leading a coalition of 17 attorneys general and the city of New York, has filed a motion to intervene in defense of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's final particulate matter (PM) standards rule. The rule aims to strengthen National Ambient Air Quality Standards for fine particulate matter (PM2.5), also known as soot, and is currently under challenge by a coalition of states and industry groups.

Attorney General Bonta emphasized the importance of maintaining strong standards to protect public health and well-being, stating, “Yet again, we are seeing meritless attacks not grounded in facts. Study after study shows that stronger standards reducing particulate matter pollution not only protect the health and well-being of Americans across this country, but also result in robust economic benefits.”

California Air Resources Board Chair Liane Randolph highlighted the severe health impacts of PM2.5 exposure, particularly on vulnerable communities, stating, “Research shows elevated PM2.5 exposure has serious health effects for all communities and particularly impacts communities of color, children, seniors and other vulnerable groups.”

Exposure to PM2.5 has been linked to increased rates of heart disease, respiratory issues, and higher death rates. The EPA's decision to strengthen the PM2.5 standards is based on scientific research demonstrating the harmful effects of particulate matter pollution on public health. The previous standards were found to be inadequate in protecting public health and welfare, leading to the need for stronger regulations.

Attorney General Bonta and the coalition of attorneys general are committed to defending the EPA's rule to ensure the protection of public health and the environment. They are joined by a coalition of states in filing the motion to intervene in the legal proceedings.

The motion to intervene can be accessed for further details on the coalition's efforts to uphold the strengthened particulate matter pollution standards.