EPA Plans to Tighten Ozone Standard

WASHINGTON (CN) – The Environmental Protection Agency plans to lower the amount of ozone allowed in ambient air from .075 parts per million to between .060 to .070 parts per million as averaged over an eight hour period in any air quality district, according to a proposed regulation.     The agency made the proposal to reduce the potential for harm to children and the elderly, who tend to suffer disproportionately from the effects of ozone pollution, including decreased lung function, and increased incidents of respiratory distress.     Three hearings are scheduled for the public to comment on the proposal. Two of the public hearings will be held on Feb. 2, in Arlington, Va., and Houston, Texas. The third public hearing will be Feb. 4, in Sacramento, Calif.