Determination of Attainment by the Attainment Date and Clean Data Determination; California, San Joaquin Valley 1997 Annual PM2.5 Fine Particulate Matter Nonattainment Area
Published Date: 1/29/2026
Rule
Summary
The EPA has confirmed that the San Joaquin Valley in California met the 1997 air quality standards for fine particle pollution by the end of 2024. This means the area’s air is cleaner than before, based on recent data from 2022 to 2025. The new rule takes effect on March 2, 2026, helping local communities breathe easier without extra costs or restrictions.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
San Joaquin Valley Meets PM2.5 Standard
The EPA determined the San Joaquin Valley attained the 1997 annual PM2.5 standard by the December 31, 2024 attainment date based on 2022–2024 monitoring data and preliminary 2025 data. This final action is effective March 2, 2026 and formally recognizes that ambient PM2.5 levels in the area met the 1997 standard.
Clean Data Determination Suspends SIP Submissions
Because of the Clean Data Determination (CDD) based on 2022–2024 data (and preliminary 2025 data), the EPA is suspending the San Joaquin Valley's obligation to submit attainment-planning State Implementation Plan (SIP) elements (including an attainment demonstration, reasonable further progress plan, quantitative milestones, reports, and contingency measures) for as long as the area continues to attain the 1997 annual PM2.5 NAAQS. The suspension takes effect March 2, 2026.
Designation Remains Serious Nonattainment
The Clean Data Determination and attainment determination do not redesignate the San Joaquin Valley to attainment. The area remains designated as "Serious" nonattainment for the 1997 annual PM2.5 NAAQS until the EPA determines the area meets Clean Air Act requirements for redesignation, including an approved maintenance plan showing continued attainment for 10 years.
No Additional Costs to Small Entities
The EPA certified that this final action will not impose any requirements or additional costs on small entities, and will not result in additional costs to state, local, or tribal governments or to the private sector beyond those imposed by state law.
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