Idaho can keep its old pollution rules for now, despite federal pressure

The US environmental regulators are proposing to approve Idaho's plan for reducing regional haze, even though it relies on older pollution control methods. This means Idaho will not have to upgrade its industrial facilities to meet stricter, newer standards for air quality.

The US environmental regulators have a national goal to improve visibility in national parks and wilderness areas. States must submit plans to show how they will make progress. Idaho's plan uses a less aggressive approach than some other states, relying on existing controls rather than requiring new ones. This decision sets a precedent for how much flexibility states have in meeting federal environmental goals, especially when it comes to balancing economic concerns with environmental protection.