EPA to Scrap Old Mojave Desert Air Pollution Rules
Published Date: 6/26/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The EPA is proposing to remove some old air pollution rules in Riverside County’s Mojave Desert area because they’re no longer needed to keep the air clean. This change affects local businesses and residents by simplifying regulations without extra costs or delays. You have until July 27, 2026, to share your thoughts before the EPA makes it official.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Removal of Old SIP Rules in Riverside
The EPA is proposing to remove eight outdated South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) rules from the Riverside County portion of the Mojave Desert Air Quality Management District (MDAQMD) portion of the California SIP. The specific rules proposed for rescission are SCAQMD Rules 1103, 1115, 1125, 1126, 1151, 1153, 1159, and 1173. The proposal says this will simplify regulations for local businesses and residents and the EPA will accept public comments until July 27, 2026.
EPA Certifies Small Business Effects
The EPA states this proposed approval is certified as not having a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities under the Regulatory Flexibility Act. That means the agency concluded the rescissions will not impose significant new costs on small businesses.
Air Protections Remain in Place
The EPA says removing these SCAQMD rules will not reduce air pollution protections in the Riverside County portion of the MDAQMD because other SIP-approved MDAQMD rules, California Air Resources Board regulations, and EPA negative declarations cover the same sources. The EPA concludes the rescissions would not interfere with attainment of air quality standards or with reasonable further progress.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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