Oklahoma wants to update its air pollution rules, some from 2002

The US environmental regulators are reviewing Oklahoma's proposed changes to its air pollution permitting program. These changes include updates to how new sources of pollution are reviewed and general revisions to the state's overall air quality plan.

States regularly update their air quality plans to match federal standards or local needs. This particular update is notable because some of the proposed revisions date back to 2002, suggesting a long delay in aligning state and federal rules. The approval of these changes could streamline how new industrial facilities get permits in Oklahoma, potentially making it easier or faster to build new plants.