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Statement of Need: Nonroad engines contribute significantly to total ozone precursor and CO emissions in areas that have failed to attain the National ambient air quality standards (NAAQS) for ozone and CO. Requirements for emissions reductions will help many areas achieve the NAAQS. The second phase will include additional controls not achievable in the timeframe of the first phase, which are necessary for continued attainment of NAAQS.

Alternatives: Regulation of this category of engines was split into two phases on the recommendation of the regulated industry, in order to obtain some early reductions quickly while providing sufficient lead-time to develop and implement an appropriate second phase. The regulatory negotiation committee was convened for the second phase to ensure that all possible options for achieving appropriate emissions reductions from this sector were considered.

Anticipated Costs and Benefits: The regulatory negotiation committee is developing the rule, including setting of emissions standards levels, based on a cost/benefit analysis that considers cost per ton of emissions reduced as well as cost per engine. Until that process is complete, the specific costs and benefits are unknown. The benefits of phase 1 were a 32 percent reduction in hydrocarbons and a 7 percent reduction in carbon monoxide from these engines, at a cost of $266 per ton of hydrocarbons reduced.

Risks: Over 89 million small engines contribute to unhealthy ozone and carbon monoxide levels in nearly 100 cities across the country. An estimated 6.8 million tons of air pollution are generated from lawn and garden equipment each year. Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless poisonous gas. Hydrocarbons and oxides of nitrogen contribute to the formation of ground-level ozone, which is a noxious pollutant that impairs lung functioning and is a key ingredient in smog.