Delaware can no longer ignore excess emissions from industrial plants

US environmental regulators are correcting an earlier mistake that allowed Delaware to ignore certain industrial emissions. This means industrial plants in Delaware must now account for all their pollution, even during malfunctions or startups.

For years, some states allowed industrial facilities to emit excess pollution during specific events, like equipment breakdowns or starting up operations, without penalty. This correction means Delaware can no longer use these 'excess emissions' provisions to avoid enforcing clean air rules. It forces industrial operators to either prevent these emissions or face consequences, which could lead to cleaner air for residents near these facilities.