The proposed bill would update current Arizona air quality statutes by allowing counties to issue voluntary permits for certifying emissions reduction credits, thereby granting them jurisdiction over portable and mobile sources within their boundaries, which is a shift from the current law where the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) holds primary jurisdiction. This change aims to enhance local control over emissions reduction efforts while ensuring compliance with the Clean Air Act. The bill also clarifies that the Director of ADEQ or the control officer can issue permits requiring emissions reductions from motor vehicles if the applicant consents, and it establishes criteria for issuing permits or revisions for certifying emissions reduction credits.

In addition to these changes, the bill introduces new definitions for "control officer" and "nonroad engines," and makes various technical updates to improve clarity and consistency in the statutes. It specifies that permits for state-regulated sources must adhere to more stringent emission standards when applicable, allows for a maximum permit term of twenty years for voluntary emission reductions, and emphasizes the need for public notice and comment periods. The bill also removes outdated provisions regarding permit fees, allowing adjustments based on the consumer price index and capping fees for certain facilities at $25,000. Overall, these updates aim to streamline the permitting process while enhancing local jurisdictional authority and ensuring compliance with federal air quality standards.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 49-402, 49-426, 49-480, 49-479, 49-410, 49-426.03, 49-426.01, 49-104, 49-427, 49-471