State Implementation Plan (SIP)
Lean Toolkit for Collaboration
Between EPA and Air Agencies
United States
Environmental Protection Agency
December 6, 2019
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EPA '.s SIP Lean Toolkit for Collaboration Between EPA and Air Agencies
I. Purpose of this Document
This document provides non-binding tools for state and local air agencies to support coordination
and collaboration with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) during the development
of state implementation plans1 (SIPs) under the Clean Air Act. The document is the product of
recent joint EPA and air agency SIP process improvement efforts, which have built on previous
collaborative work. Although use of this Toolkit is completely voluntary, it is intended to be
helpful in supporting development of all types of SIPs, and in promoting timely SIP review and
action by EPA.
The specific focus of this Toolkit is to support early engagement between air agencies and EPA
during the air agency's SIP development process. Early engagement is an important
collaboration tool because it provides opportunities to identify and raise issues that may impact
approvability of a SIP submission early enough in the air agency's SIP development process to
enable changes prior to the public comment period at the state/local level. In addition, early
engagement enables EPA to develop familiarity with forthcoming SIP submittals so that EPA is
poised to take timely action on incoming submittals from air agencies.
II. Background on EPA SIP Lean Process
EPA strives to take timely action on newly submitted SIPs while also taking action on SIPs that
are past due for action pursuant to Clean Air Act (CAA) timelines described in section
110(k)(2)2. EPA is using continuous improvement (lean) tools to identify and implement further
improvements in EPA's SIP review and action processes.
EPA and air agencies have focused considerable attention and resources over a number of years
on improving SIP management and reducing the SIP backlog. The current SIP lean effort was
initiated in February 2018 with a week-long kaizen event involving EPA participants
representing every Region and Headquarters, along with four state and local air agency
representatives. A primary recommendation that emerged from the SIP kaizen event is for EPA
to work more proactively with air agencies during SIP development to identify and resolve issues
before the SIP is adopted by the air agency and formally submitted to EPA. EPA's improved
process, developed from the kaizen event recommendations, suggests that early engagement can
help to support air agencies in SIP development as well as improve the timeline for EPA review
and action on a submitted SIP.
III. Early Engagement During Air Agency SIP Development
1 For brevity, this document refers to all state implementation plan submissions, including revisions of a State
Implementation Plan as "SIPs." This includes plans addressing implementation of national ambient air quality
standards (NAAQS) and the regional haze program.
2 EPA considers SIPs to be "backlogged" if EPA has not taken final action within the CAA deadlines. Under CAA
section 110(k)(2), EPA is required to take action on a SIP within 12 months after it is deemed complete. If EPA does
not make a completeness determination, a SIP is deemed complete by operation of law 6 months after receipt of the
SIP submittal.
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A. General Process
Under the framework of "early engagement," EPA could be working with air agencies from the
time the air agency begins planning for the development of the SIP3 to the time the SIP is
formally submitted to EPA for review and action via the State Planning Electronic Collaboration
System (SPeCS).4 A key aspect of early engagement is that it occurs early enough in the air
agency's SIP development process that there is sufficient time for EPA to review and provide
feedback on the content, and for the air agency to make changes, all prior to the public notice and
comment period at the state/local level. The idea here is that if EPA can provide feedback,
particularly in terms of flagging issues that could impact approvability, on an early engagement
draft SIP, EPA will be better able to take more efficient action when the SIP is formally
submitted for EPA review and action, resulting in less re-work and more routine achievement of
the statutory deadline for final action on the SIP.
Early engagement does not guarantee that no other issues will arise regarding the SIP revision
once it is formally submitted to EPA for review and action; however, EPA expects that early
engagement will reduce those occurrences. Further, early engagement with EPA does not ensure
that adverse public comments will not be received during the local, state, and/or federal public
comment period, or that the SIP will not be delayed due to other unforeseen circumstances such
as a court decision. If adverse comments are received or other novel issues arise, additional
discussions between EPA and the air agency would likely occur.
B. Workload Planning
A key element of prior SIP improvement efforts was an emphasis on coordination between EPA
and air agencies, such as planning for the annual SIP workload. To support this goal, EPA
Regional offices encourage air agencies to provide them with a list of SIPs air agencies
anticipate developing in the upcoming federal fiscal year and beyond, if possible.5 This workload
planning can help identify the SIPs for which it will be most important to allow time for early
engagement. EPA intends to prioritize early feedback to air agencies on draft SIPs submitted to
EPA with sufficient time for such review. Regular communications between air agencies and
EPA Regional offices are expected to result in refinements and updates to this initial list
throughout the year. EPA recognizes that it may not be possible to fully identify all SIPs in
advance of the fiscal year.6
The air agency and Region may consider whether to establish or update their memorandum of
agreement (MOA), 4-year plan, or other documents related to SIP coordination and planning to
3 EPA also encourages coordination with potentially impacted Tribe(s) early in the SIP process so that they have the
opportunity for meaningful input. In some cases, EPA will also offer consultation with the potentially impacted
Tribe(s).
4 Ideally, there will be some level of engagement and coordination between the air agency and EPA for every SIP
revision being developed. However, if resources do not allow for full "early engagement," a Region can prioritize
engagement on certain types of SIP revisions (e.g., complex SIP revisions), and would likely engage with air
agencies in identifying priorities.
5 Complex SIPs that involve modeling or other technical components may take air agencies years to develop. For
those SIPs, workload planning and early engagement should start as early as possible,
6 Multi-year SIP plans are a useful tool for long term workload planning.
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include expectations regarding the SIP lean process, particularly early engagement (see the
MOA/Joint Agreement Template in Appendix C). While some air agencies may find MOAs to
be useful, they are not mandatory.
C. Who at EPA is involved in the Early Engagement Process?
There are several EPA personnel who are critical to successful implementation of the SIP lean
process and will participate in the early engagement process with air agencies:
SIP Lead: The SIP Lead is the Regional staff person assigned to a SIP with overall
responsibility for shepherding a SIP through EPA's review and action process, and who plays
a strong convening role throughout the process.
SIP Team: EPA Regional offices will assign the appropriate technical and legal experts to
assist the SIP lead through the early engagement process and in timely review of the
submitted SIP. Depending on the type of submittal, the Regional office would also reach out
to EPA Headquarters offices for involvement of experts there as needed.
D. Early Engagement Process Steps
(1) Air Agency Drafts a SIP Development Schedule
Participants in the SIP lean kaizen event recommended that the air agency initiate the SIP
development process by drafting a SIP Development Schedule (see Appendix A).7 The purpose
of the SIP Development Schedule is to facilitate communication between the air agency and EPA
on key milestone dates for developing the SIP and to identify potential issues needing resolution.
To be most useful, the SIP Development Schedule would be completed before the air agency
begins drafting the SIP, ideally least six months prior to when EPA's review of the early
engagement draft SIP is expected. EPA appreciates that this process is not required and may not
be needed on every SIP, but sharing anticipated timing and schedules would help EPA and air
agencies plan workloads to better meet targeted dates. This approach is especially recommended
for complex SIPs or when air agencies anticipate adverse comment at the state/local level. For
such SIPs, the air agency may find it useful to submit portions of the SIP to EPA for feedback
prior to sharing a complete draft. Such reviews may be iterative and to that end, ideally the
schedule would provide adequate time to accommodate these early reviews. Air agencies and
EPA Regional offices may want to discuss the SIP Development Schedule and reach an
understanding regarding next steps for moving forward. Questions to guide this discussion are
identified in Appendix A of this document.
A key aspect of the schedule is an opportunity for the air agency to share a complete early
engagement draft of the SIP for EPA review prior to the air agency's public comment period,
7 In recommending use of a SIP Development Schedule, EPA does not view this as requiring additional burden or
work on the part of the air agency. Discussions with air agencies indicate that many air agencies already use these
types of tools as part of their SIP development processes. Sharing this information can help facilitate effective
communication with EPA. This process is recommended to improve efficiency, but is not required.
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ideally 4 months to 1 year8 prior to the planned date for formal submittal of the SIP to EPA.
Keeping with the idea of the schedule, the schedule ideally would also provide adequate time for
EPA review and comment on the early engagement draft (30 to 60 days, depending on the
complexity9 of the SIP)10 and allow for additional time for resolution of any approvability
issues (consistent with the air agency's needs). For SIP revisions required for 2015 ozone
nonattainment areas, please see the Ozone Quick Start Guide for additional information.
The SIP Lead will strive to provide feedback to the air agency within 14 days after receiving the
draft SIP Development Schedule. The air agency is encouraged to complete the SIP
Development Schedule within 14 days of receiving EPA's feedback.
(2) Initial Conceptual Discussions between EPA and Air Agency
Conceptual discussions are informal discussions between the air agency and EPA regarding the
air agency's approach to a complex SIP revision prior to the air agency drafting a SIP
submission. Conceptual discussions involve the air agency presenting ideas and asking questions
to get EPA's initial feedback to inform SIP development. To the extent possible, issues identified
by the air agency and EPA ideally would be resolved during these conceptual discussions.11
These discussions could also cover the technical aspects of the SIP, including model protocols
and inventory development, as appropriate, to reach agreement on the approach to modeling and
emissions inventory.
(3) Ongoing Discussions
Consistent with current common practice, EPA and the air agency will likely continue to have
discussions on SIP development and may establish regular meetings for complex SIP revisions.
In some cases, particularly for complex SIP revisions, it might be helpful for the air agency to
submit pieces of the draft SIP for informal review as they are ready, prior to submitting a
complete early engagement draft for EPA review. Where applicable, draft modeling protocols
and inventory development plan are relevant topics for ongoing discussions between EPA and air
agencies, and air agencies are encouraged to share those documents with EPA. The SIP
Development Schedule could be updated, as needed, to reflect those discussions between EPA
and the air agency.
For attainment plans, EPA has developed the Attainment Plan Development Checklist (see
Appendix B), which the air agency can use in developing the SIP revision. The Checklist can
8 Air agencies' SIP development procedures vary widely. In addition, the time needed for SIP development depends
on the nature of the SIP and the specific issues in the area. Therefore, the 4 to 12 months timeframe is a suggested
range. For any given SIP, the time needed for early engagement may be longer or shorter. The air agency and
Region should agree on the appropriate timeframe for each SIP.
9 A "complex" SIP is generally one where the Region needs to involve EPA Headquarters. Complex SIPs include
"first of their kind" SIPs and significant SIPs such attainment plans. Complexity may arise due to inconsistency with
previous actions, matters in litigation, and other issues likely to receive significant adverse public comment.
10 There may be situations where EPA needs more time for early engagement review and that will need to be
negotiated with the air agency. Complexity of the SIP will be assessed and determined on an individual basis. For
complex SIP revisions, EPA Headquarters may participate as part of the SIP Team.
11 EPA cannot provide a full evaluation at the conceptual discussion stage. In addition to further development of the
SIP revision between conceptual design and submittal, often other events (for example, litigation, policy, and/or
regulatory changes) may occur between the time of the conceptual discussion and when the SIP is submitted that
may change EPA's position.
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assist the air agency in identifying where and how in the attainment plan various CAA and
regulatory requirements are met. EPA may also use this checklist to review the draft early
engagement SIP.
(4) Air Agency Notifies EPA of Early Engagement Draft Submission
For this step, the air agency is encouraged to notify EPA, preferably two to four weeks in
advance of sharing the early engagement draft with EPA. Such discussions on the status of SIP
development may also take place during the monthly planning calls between air agencies and
Regional offices. Should workload or other availability issues for the EPA SIP Team come up at
this point, EPA may collaborate with the air agency to establish a longer review period.
Likewise, if the air agency needs EPA review in less than 30 days from the date the draft SIP is
submitted, the air agency is encouraged to communicate this with EPA.
(5) Air Agency Submits Early Engagement Draft
The air agency submits an early engagement draft (i.e., a complete draft SIP) to EPA, ideally
through SPeCS,12 for review and comment prior to the air agency's public comment period. EPA
is encouraging the early engagement draft prior to its public comment period and at least 4 to 12
months prior to formal submittal.13
(6) EPA Reviews Early Engagement Draft and Provides Comments
EPA anticipates making early review of draft SIP submissions a high priority and will engage the
SIP Team to provide a thorough review, with a focus on identifying approvability issues.
To the extent possible, EPA intends to provide early engagement comments to the air agencies
categorized as follows:
• Key Comments - potential approvability issues that could impact EPA's ability to take
final approval action on the SIP such that EPA recommends the air agency address these
issues prior to formal submittal.
• General Comments - issues that if resolved would strengthen the formal submission.
• Other Comments - helpful things to alert the air agency to but not critical for the air
agency to address in their formal submission.
Within the agreed-upon timeframe, the Regional office provides the comments to the air agency
in the manner the air agency prefers, but typically in writing, to the extent practical. If EPA is not
able to provide complete comments during the early engagement stage because additional
discussions on a particular issue are needed, the Region will follow up with the air agency to
communicate the status and plan for EPA's input.
(7) The Air Agency Addresses EPA's Comments
A recommended best practice is for EPA and the air agency to meet to hold a conference call to
discuss EPA's comments, and changes anticipated by the air agency in response to EPA
feedback. EPA appreciates that such meetings may not always be practical to schedule; however,
12 EPA appreciates that stakeholders are interested in transparency regarding the status if EPA's review. Moving
towards one submittal system for draft SIPs would support that goal.
13 Because the details of each SIP are unique, 4 to 12 months may not be appropriate. A different timeframe could be
agreed upon by the air agency and EPA Region.
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success of early engagement hinges on ongoing and regular communications and EPA
encourages holding these specific meetings or calls, particularly for complex SIPs. For simpler
SIPs, other communication options may suffice.
(8) Air Agency Initiates Public Comment Period
After considering EPA's comments, and finalizing a draft SIP revision, the air agency usually
then prepares for its public comment period. EPA encourages air agencies to submit to EPA the
link to the public comment period proposed SIP revision, preferably through SPeCS. The air
agency public comment period is another opportunity to get input from potentially impacted
Tribe(s), in addition to the recommended coordination earlier in the SIP development process.
(9) EPA's Review and Comments during the Air Agency's Public Comment Period
EPA may provide comments on the SIP during the air agency's public comment period.
Examples of comments EPA may make at this stage include, but are not limited to: "Key
Comments" identified by EPA during early engagement that have not yet been addressed in the
public comment draft SIP; any new EPA "Key Comments" that were not identified during early
engagement review due to, for example, new litigation considerations, policy changes, or recent
regulatory actions that change how EPA would review and comment on the SIP; and any new
language that has been added that EPA did not have an opportunity to comment on during early
engagement.
EPA may also provide comments on SIPs where there was no review of an early engagement
draft of the SIP. If a thorough EPA review of a SIP within the air agency's 30-day public
comment period is not possible, the Regional office will alert the air agency regarding EPA's
inability to provide approvability feedback at this stage. The air agency may decide to allow
more time for EPA to provide input or may decide to move forward with the SIP with the
understanding that issues may be identified by EPA after the SIP is formally submitted.
The SIP Lead will notify the air agency in advance whether EPA is planning to submit
comments. EPA will then submit a comment letter to the air agency as appropriate. The SIP Lead
will offer to hold a conference call with the air agency to discuss the comments and answer
questions. This call may include others on the SIP Team as appropriate. The air agency is
encouraged to continue to coordinate with EPA as it makes any further revisions to the SIP
before submission to EPA.
If EPA is not able to provide the air agency with complete comments during the public comment
period because additional discussions on a particular issue are needed, the Region will follow up
with the air agency to communicate the status and plan for EPA's input. EPA acknowledges that
air agencies may not be able to address EPA comments received after the close of the public
comment period.
E. Air Agency Adoption & Submittal of SIP Revision (Post-Early Engagement)
(1) Air Agency Addresses Public Comments
Ideally, air agencies will let EPA know if they receive an adverse public comment during their
public comment period that raises a significant new issue which might affect the approvability of
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the SIP. Further discussion may be helpful between the air agency and EPA to resolve any issues
that emerge during the public comment period. A key idea associated with early engagement is
that potential approvability issues would be addressed prior to the air agency formally submitting
the SIP to EPA.
(2) Air Agency Adopts SIP Revision and Submits it to EPA through SPeCS
The final step in the air agency's SIP revision process is adoption of the formal submission by
the air agency, consistent with individual air agency processes, and submittal to EPA.
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IV. Checklist for the SIP Lean Toolkit
This checklist is a discretionary tool for air agencies to use in managing a SIP revision through
the SIP lean early engagement process in a manner consistent with existing SIP development
obligations. The steps summarized here are explained in detail in the previous sections of this
SIP Lean Toolkit. This checklist is organized into tables according to the key steps in the
process. For reference, the step numbers in the table correspond to the process step numbers in
the Toolkit.
Early Engagement during Air Agency SIP Revision Development
Action
Responsible Person
(and others that
might be involved)
When
(Recommended
timeframes)
1. Air Agency Initiates SIP Development by Drafting a SIP Development Schedule
Air agency develops the SIP Development Schedule and shares
with the SIP Lead for review and feedback on draft.
Air Agency (SIP
Lead)
Completed at
least 6 months
prior to when
EPA review of
the early
engagement
draft SIP is
expected. EPA
should provide
feedback within
14 days of
receipt of draft
Air agency finalizes SIP Development Schedule (SDS) and
provides to SIP Lead for awareness.
Air Agency (SIP
Lead)
Final SDS
within 14 days
of EPA
feedback
2.
nitial Conceptual Discussions between EPA and Air Agency
Air agency or SIP Lead schedule discussions with air agency,
as appropriate, to discuss potential issues, ask questions,
identify relevant guidance, and communicate EPA's
expectations.
SIP Lead
(Air Agency, SIP
Team)
3. Ongoing Discussions
EPA and the air agency continue to have discussions on SIP
development and may have regular meetings for complex SIPs.
Submission of portions of SIPs to facilitate discussion is
encouraged if the entire SIP is not yet available.
SIP Lead
(Air Agency, SIP
Team)
4. Air Agency Notifies EPA of Early Engagement Draft Submission
The air agency notifies EPA in advance of sharing an Early
Engagement Draft to EPA for review.
Air Agency
2-4 weeks
before air
agency plans to
send Early
Engagement
Draft
5. Air Agency Submits Early Engagement Draft
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Early Engagement during Air Agency SIP Revision Development
Action
Responsible Person
(and others that
might be involved)
When
(Recommended
timeframes)
Air agency submits Early Engagement Draft for EPA review.
Air Agency
4-12 months
before formal
SIP submittal
6.
LP A Reviews Early Engagement Draft and Provides Comments
EPA reviews Early Engagement Draft with a focus on
identifying approvability issues. EPA comments may include:
• Key Comments - potential approvability issues that
should be addressed by the air agency before formal
submission of the SIP for EPA review and action,
• General Comments - issues that if resolved would
strengthen the formal submission but EPA could
address in EPA's proposed action without the air
agency addressing them, and
• Other Comments - helpful things to alert the air
agency to but not critical for the air agency to address
in their formal submission.
SIP Lead (SIP
Team)
EPA provides
comments to the
air agency
within the
agreed upon
timeframe
(typically 30 -
60 days).
7. The Air Agency Addresses EPA's Comments
EPA and the air agency should have a follow-up call to
discuss/clarify EPA comments; additional follow-up may be
encouraged on certain issues. Air agency discusses any changes
to SIP Development Schedule.
Air Agency, SIP
Lead, (SIP Team)
8. Air Agency Initiates Public Comment Period
The air agency submits the weblink to EPA for the public
comment period on the proposed SIP revision to EPA through
SPeCS. The air agency public comment period is another
opportunity to get input from potentially impacted Tribe(s), in
addition to the recommended coordination earlier in the SIP
development process.
Air Agency
9.
LPA's Review and Comments during the Air Agency's Public Comment Period
EPA may provide comments on the SIP during the air agency's
public comment period. The SIP Lead notifies the air agency
whether EPA is planning to submit comments.
SIP Lead, SIP Team
EPA provides
comments
within the public
comment period,
if applicable.
The SIP Lead offers to have a conference call with the air
agency to discuss the comments and answer questions.
SIP Lead, Air
Agency
If EPA is not able to provide the air agency with complete
comments during the public comment period, the Region will
follow up with the air agency to communicate the status and
plan for EPA's input.
SIP Lead, Air
Agency
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Air Agency Adoption & Submittal of SIP Revision (Post-Early Engagement)
Action
Responsible Person
(and others that
might be involved)
When
1. Air Agency Addresses Public Comments
The air agency should ensure that that it has adequately
addressed all EPA Key Comments by providing EPA with a
response to comments document and indicating any changes
being made to the SIP to address EPA's comments.
Air Agency (SIP
Lead, SIP Team)
Further discussion may be needed between the air agency and
EPA to resolve any issues that emerge during the public
comment period.
Air Agency (SIP
Lead, SIP Team)
2. Air Agency Adopts SIP Revision and Submits Formal SIP Submittal to EPA through SPeCS
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Appendix A:
A SIP Development Schedule is an optional but recommended tool for laying out the expected
timeline for developing a particular SIP and identifying potential issues. A number of air
agencies already use this type of planning tool to facilitate reaching general agreement among
the parties involved as to how a SIP will be developed. The table below can be customized as
needed. Ideally, a SIP Development Schedule would initiate the SIP development process and be
completed by air agencies at least six months before EPA review is expected. As the rulemaking
process progresses, the target dates may change, and the air agency is encouraged to notify EPA
and other participating agencies of the changes.
Title of SIP:
Submission Target Date:
Milestones
Date
Initial Discussion(s) with EPA: Air agency and EPA discuss the
questions listed below about project scope, potential issues, available
guidance, scheduling needs, and feasibility.
Draft SIP Development Schedule: Air agency initiates discussion of
timing with EPA SIP Lead. This should be completed at least six
months before EPA review is expected.
Final SIP Development Schedule: EPA should provide feedback
within 14 days of receipt of the draft schedule. The air agency should
finalize it within 14 days of receipt of EPA's feedback.
Revise SIP Development Schedule: As necessary, the air agency
should update the schedule if dates for expected draft and formal
submittal change.
Modeling Protocol and Inventory Development: Air agency sends
draft modeling protocol and inventory development plan to EPA, if
applicable.
Modeling Protocol and Inventory Development Review: EPA
provides comments on modeling protocol and inventory development
plan, if applicable.
Modeling Results, Draft Control Strategy, and Draft Emissions
Inventory: Air agency sends modeling results, draft control strategy
and draft emissions inventory to EPA, if applicable.
Modeling Results, Draft Control Strategy, and Draft Emissions
Inventory Review: EPA provides comments on modeling results, draft
control strategy, and draft emissions inventory, if applicable.
Early Engagement Draft: Air agency sends a complete draft SIP
revision to EPA for review prior to public comment period. Prior to
this step, pieces of the draft SIP may be shared with EPA for informal
review as they are completed. Ideally air agencies should provide the
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Milestones
Date
early engagement draft SIP 4 months to 1 year prior to planned
official submission.
EPA Feedback on Early Engagement Draft: EPA provides
comments to air agency and identifies approvability issues. Air
agencies should provide 30 days for EPA review of routine SIPs and
60 days for review of complex SIPs.
Follow-up Meeting: Air agency and EPA discuss EPA comments and
potential revisions to the SIP Development Schedule. Air agencies
should allow enough time to address EPA's comments after receiving
them and before the air agency needs to provide documents for
publication for their public comment period.
Public Comment Period Opens: Air agency sends EPA a link to the
public review draft and notifies EPA of the comment period closing
date.
Public Hearing: Air agency holds any required public hearings (see 40
CFR 51.102).
End of Public Comment Period: Final pre-submittal opportunity for
EPA comments.
SIP Submission: Air agency sends SIP submission to EPA.
Process Evaluation: Air agency and EPA discuss the successes and
challenges with the SIP development process on regular calls. The
Region compiles recommendations to share with SIP lean workgroup.
Questions for Initial Discussion with EPA (can be completed either before or during the initial
meeting between EPA and the air agency)
1. What is the scope of the SIP Revision (in 1-3 sentences)? Include Clean Air Act requirement
and available guidance.
2. Are there known technical, legal or policy issues that need resolution? Y/N
If yes, what:
3. Is there a required deadline for the SIP submission or other timing considerations for the
submission? Y/N If yes, what is it?
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4. Is the air agency requesting that EPA finalize action on the submission by certain date? Y/N
If yes, by what date and why?
5. Are there any expected impacts to tribal interests? If so, what communication and/or
coordination is planned with the potentially impacted tribe(s)?14
6. Names of staff and managers that will be involved in preparing and reviewing the SIP
revision:
Air agency:
EPA:
Other agencies:
14 EPA encourages coordination with potentially impacted Tribe(s) early in the SIP process so that they have the
opportunity for meaningful input. In some cases, EPA will also offer consultation with the potentially impacted
Tribe(s).
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Appendix B:
EPA Region: State/s: Area: NAAQS:
Other EPA Regions (For Multi-jurisdictional Areas):
Checklist Purpose
This checklist is an optional tool that is intended to be used by both air agencies and EPA staff to assist in the development of attainment plans that
contain the necessary information for timely EPA action. This checklist is a SIP planning tool and not intended to substitute for Clean Air Act or
regulatory requirements for SIP submissions. *Use of this checklist does not ensure an attainment plan's approvability by EPA. *
Part 1. Early Engagement & Communications
Crileria
Yes No \/A
Optional Comment
1. Was there "early engagement" between the state and EPA in development of this plan?
~
~
~
2. Has the air agency consulted with EPA on the approach being taken in the submission?
~
~
~
3. For any SIP revisions, has the air agency consulted with EPA about whether a non-interference
demonstration under CAA section 110(1) is needed?
~
~
~
4. Was available EPA guidance identified?
~
~
~
5. For a plan needing a CAA section 110(1) demonstration, has the air agency consulted with EPA on
adequacy of the demonstration?
a. A section 110(1) demonstration should adequately assess whether the SIP revision will
interfere with attainment and maintenance of any of the national ambient air quality
standards (NAAQS), reasonable further progress (RFP), or any other applicable
requirement of the CAA
~
~
~
6. For a multi-State nonattainment area, did the state air agency coordinate with the other relevant
State air agency(ies) throughout the SIP development process?
~
~
~
7. Has the air agency consulted with EPA in the approach/es used to quantify emissions reductions?
~
~
~
8. Has the air agency consulted with EPA in the approach used to quantify emissions reductions or
emission levels from attainment control measures?
~
~
~
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Part 2. General Elements
Criteria
Yes
No
N/A
Optional C omment
9. Does the plan clearly outline the geographical area(s) affected?
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~
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10. Does the plan clearly list the relevant Clean Air Act (CAA) and regulatory requirements? The user
of this checklist may also use the attached list of CAA and regulatory requirements by pollutant
and identify where the plan addresses each requirement.
~
~
~
Does the plan clearly describe how each CAA and regulatory requirement is met?
~
~
~
11. Does the plan clearly include adequate information to support State's descriptions/claims for each
CAA requirement (e.g., each SIP element)?
~
~
~
12. Is the State's approach consistent with EPA's regulations, guidelines, and previous actions, if
applicable?
~
~
~
13. Is there anything in the State's approach that represents a new or modified approach to fulfilling a
requirement?
~
~
~
14. Where applicable, does the plan contain a CAA section 110(1) demonstration?
~
~
~
Part 3. Attainment Plan Elements
Criteria
Yes
No
N/A
Optional Comment
BACKGROUND
15. Is there a brief overview of why the plan was developed and which pollutants are covered?
~
~
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16. Are the dates for designation, classification (if applicable) and attainment relevant to the attainment
area provided?
~
~
~
17. Is there a summary of all actions (e.g., reclassification, extension of attainment dates, boundary
changes, etc.) that have occurred since the original designation of the nonattainment area?
~
~
~
MONITORING
18. Is the ambient air quality monitoring network discussed, including such things as scale of
representativeness, purpose of site, location of monitors, monitoring start date, and when EPA last
approved the network?
~
~
~
19. Does the plan address and provide air quality data and/or design values for all monitors in the area?
20. Does the plan identify whether each monitor is using federal reference or equivalent methods
(FRM/FEM)?
~
~
~
21. Is the quality assurance, validity, completeness, and certification status of the data discussed?
~
~
~
22. Do the data and/or design values included match Air Quality System (AQS)?
23. Are any applicable special studies concerning air quality monitoring summarized?
~
~
~
16
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24. Is there an analysis of the air quality data provided? (e.g., data related to characterizing the source,
transport, and fate of the pollution including seasonal variation, correlation to meteorological
conditions, and trends.)
~
~
~
25. Are violating data identified and explained, including references to exceptional events requests that
have been submitted and/or approved?
~
~
~
EMISSIONS INVENTORY
26. Are all the required emissions inventories included in the plan?
~
~
~
27. Does the plan include a comprehensive, accurate, current inventory of actual emissions from all
sources of the relevant pollutant or pollutants in the area for the base year of the plan?
~
~
~
28. Is there agreement on the emissions inventory years?
~
~
~
29. Is the attainment year emissions inventory to any extent based on actual emissions? If yes, please
identify the pollutant and source types relying on actual emissions.
~
~
~
30. Does the plan include a detailed explanation of how the emissions inventories were developed
including documentation of data sources?
~
~
~
31. Where appropriate, do the emissions inventories in the plan match that reported to the NEI?
~
~
~
32. Does the plan rely on the latest EPA approved emissions models for mobile sources (non-road and
on-road sources?)
~
~
~
33. Does the plan include motor vehicle emissions budgets (MVEBs) for the attainment and RFP or
quantitative milestone years, or alternatively make an insignificance determination for on-road
mobile sources for all pollutants of concern (including precursors) for transportation conformity
purposes? (Notes: MVEBs and insignificant determinations are covered by the transportation
conformity regulations (40 CFR Part 93). MVEBs should not be established in SIPs for revoked
NAAQS. Transportation conformity does not apply to the sulfur dioxide and lead NAAQS.)
~
~
~
ATTAINMENT DEMONSTRATION
34. Does the plan include a demonstration based on modeling that the area will attain by the applicable
attainment date?
~
~
~
35. Is one of EPA's preferred modeling techniques as specified in EPA's Guidelines on Air Quality
Models (Appendix W) used to demonstrate attainment of the NAAQS (e.g. Appendix W, Table 8-
D?
~
~
~
36. If an alternative modeling technique not specified in EPA's Guidelines on Air Quality Models
(Appendix W) is used, has the State consulted with EPA on adequacy and approvability of such
modeling technique as part of the plan?
~
~
~
37. Is the modeling adequately documented and are the used parameters sufficiently justified?
~
~
~
38. Do the modeled emissions limitations restrict dispersion credit in accordance with good
engineering practice requirements, per CAA section 123?
~
~
~
17
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39. Where applicable, instead of an attainment demonstration, does the plan include a demonstration
~
~
~
that it is impracticable for the area to attain by its attainment date?
CONTROL MEASURES
40.
Is there a description of each control measure contained in the control strategy along with a
description of the sources covered and pollutants addressed?
~
~
~
41.
Are the control measure requirements identified?
~
~
~
42.
Are the adopted control measures permanent and federally enforceable?
~
~
~
43.
Are the adopted control measures part of the SIP or being incorporated into the SIP as part of this
~
~
~
plan?
44.
Are reasonably available control measures (RACM) and technologies (RACT) identified by
pollutant and source category, and properly justified?
~
~
~
45.
Does the plan discuss control technologies considered in the evaluation and selection of RACT in
~
~
~
the context of technical and economic feasibility?
46.
Are the effective dates of each control measure identified?
~
~
~
47.
Is there an explanation of how the control measures are being or will be implemented?
~
~
~
48.
Is there an explanation of how the control measures are being or will be enforced?
~
~
~
49.
Is there an explanation of how the emission reductions are being or will be determined?
~
~
~
50.
Are emission reductions from adopted control measures quantifiable and surplus?
~
~
~
51.
For voluntary measures, is there a description of the reduction credit requested, how effectiveness
will be tracked, and how the implementing agency will respond to shortfalls in emissions
reductions?
~
~
~
REASONABLE FURTHER PROGRESS
52.
Does the plan identify how the implementation of the adopted control measures achieves
reasonable further progress (RFP)?
~
~
~
53.
Does the plan quantify incremental emission reductions needed to achieve RFP?
~
~
~
54.
Does the plan establish a schedule for emissions reductions (i.e., milestones) to track RFP?
~
~
~
CONTINGENCY MEASURES
55.
Are the contingency measures identified?
~
~
~
56.
Do the contingency measures have an appropriate trigger?
~
~
~
57.
Does the plan contain or rely on early triggered contingency measures?
~
~
~
58.
Will the contingency measures take effect without further action by the state or EPA?
~
~
~
59.
Is an explanation provided on how the contingency measure emissions reductions will be quantified
(e.g., 1 year's worth of RFP)?
~
~
~
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NEW SOURCE REVIEW
60. Is the air agency revising its nonattainment new source review (NNSR) rules to meet current NNSR
requirements for the area's classification?
~
~
~
61. Is the air agency "certifying" that their existing SIP is sufficient to meet the current NNSR
requirements for the area's classification and include this certification in the attainment plan
submission?
~
~
~
62. Do the NNSR rules address the required precursors (either by inclusion in the rule or through an
insignificance demonstration)?
~
~
~
63. If a precursor insignificance demonstration for NNSR has been approved in the past, is the air
agency updating the precursor demonstration?
~
~
~
Part 4. Completeness Criteria for Formal Submission
Criteria
Yes No \A
Optional Comment
64. Prior its formal submission to EPA, does the plan contain all the necessary administrative materials
to meet the completeness criteria sections 2.1 and 2.3 of 40 CFR 51, Appendix V?
~
~
~
65. Prior its formal submission to EPA, does the plan contain the necessary technical supporting
information in accordance with section 2.2 of 40 CFR 51, Appendix V? This includes but is not
limited to:
b. Demonstrations that the NAAQS, PSD increment, RFP, and visibility protection are
protected if the plan is approved and implemented?
c. Modeling information to support the submission with accompanying information relevant
to determine the adequacy of the modeling (such as input data, output data, models used,
assumptions used, etc.)?
d. Information necessary to determine that emission limits are continuous?
e. Appropriate compliance and enforcement strategies?
~
~
~
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I sel'ul Resources
• Guidance for ir Sulfur Dioxide (SO?) N A AOS Nonattainment Area SIP Submissions
• Implementation of the .2008 Ozone NAAOS SIP Requirements Rule
• Implementation of the 201.5 Ozone NAAOS SIP Requirements Rule
• Implementation of the fine particulate matter CPM?s) NAAOS SIP Requirements Rule
• General Preamble for the Implementation of Title I of the Clean Air Act (CAA) Amendments of 19' R .1.3498)
• EPA's September 23. .1.987 Memorandum "Review of State Implementation. Plans and Revisions for Enforceability and Legal Sufficiency"
(See Page 366 of "Air Programs Policy and Guidance Notebook. Vol. 2")
• PM? s Precursor Demonstration Guidance
• Air Emissions Reporting Requirements Rule (AERR)
• Emissions Inventory Guidance for Implementation of Ozone and Particulate Matter NAAOS and Regional Haze Regulations
• Emission Inventory Improvement Program (EI.IP)
• Modeling Guidance for Demonstrating Attainment of Air Quality Goals for Ozone. PM? s. and Regional Haze
• Information on Air Quality Dispersion Modeling
• General Guidance on Innovative and Voluntary Air Pollution Control Strategies
• Information on EPA's Mobile Source Emissions Models
• Guidance for Using Latest MOVES Model for SIP Development and Transportation Conformity Purposes
• Transportation Related Documents for State and Local Agencies
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ATTACHMENT:
Nonattainment SIP Requirements under Clean Air Act by Pollutant
The table below lists the general nonattainment planning requirements by pollutant under part D of Title I of the Clean Air Act. The Clean Air Act,
EPA's regulations in 40 CFR part 51, and applicable EPA policy and guidance should be consulted to ensure that all applicable requirements are
adequately met. The last column of this table is recommended to be used in coordination with the Development Checklist to identify where the
CAA Provisions
Requirement
Applicability
Plan
Identification
Ozone
CO
PM
so2
Pb
no2
Subpart 1
Section 172(a)(2)
Attainment Dates for Nonattainment Areas
X
X
X
X
X
X
Subpart 1
Section 172(a)(b)
Schedule for Plan Submissions
X
X
X
X
X
X
Subpart 1
Section 172(c)(1)
RACM/RACT
X
X
X
X
X
X
Subpart 1
Section 172(c)(2)
RFP
X
X
X
X
X
X
Subpart 1
Section 172(c)(3)
Emissions Inventory
X
X
X
X
X
X
Subpart 1
Section 172(c)(4)
Identification and Quantification
X
X
X
X
X
X
Subpart 1
Section 172(c)(5)
NNSR
X
X
X
X
X
X
Subpart 1
Section 172(c)(6)
Other Measures
X
X
X
X
X
X
Subpart 1
Section 172(c)(9)
Contingency Measures
X
X
X
X
X
X
Subpart 2
Section 181
Classification and Attainment Dates
X
Subpart 2
Section 182(a)(3)
Emissions Statements
X
Subpart 2
Section 182(a)(4)
NNSR Offset Requirement for Marginal Areas
X
Subpart 2
Section 182(b)(1)
RFP for Moderate Areas
X
Subpart 2
Section 182(b)(2)
RACT (CTG and Major VOC)
X
Subpart 2
Section 182(b)(3)
Gasoline Vapor Recovery
X
Subpart 2
Section 182(b)(4)
I/M for Moderate Areas
X
Subpart 2
Section 182(b)(5)
NNSR Offset Requirement for Moderate Areas
X
Subpart 2
Section 182(c)(1)
Enhanced Monitoring for Serious Areas
X
Subpart 2
Section 182(c)(2)(A)
Attainment Demonstration for Serious Areas
X
Subpart 2
Section 182(c)(2)(B)-
(C)
RFP for Serious Areas
X
Subpart 2
Section 182(c)(3)
Enhanced I/M for Serious Areas
X
Subpart 2
Section 182(c)(4)
Clean Fuel Vehicle Program (if applicable)
X
Subpart 2
Section 182(c)(5)
Transportation Control (VMT Demonstration
and TCM)
X
Subpart 2
Section 182(c)(6)
NNSR De Minimis Rule
X
Subpart 2
Section 182(c)(7)-(8)
Special Rules for Stationary Sources
X
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CAA Provisions
Requirement
Applicability
Plan
Identification
Ozone
CO
PM
so2
Pb
no2
Subpart 2
Section 182(c)(9)
Contingency Measures for Serious Areas
X
Subpart 2
Section 182(c)(10)
NNSR Offset Requirement for Serious Areas
X
Subpart 2
Section 182(d)(1)
VMT (VMT Growth Demonstration and TCM)
X
Subpart 2
Section 182(d)(2)
NNSR Offset Requirement for Severe Areas
X
Subpart 2
Section 182(d)(3)
Penalty Fee Program under CAA Section 185
X
Subpart 2
Section 182(e)(l)-(2)
NNSR Requirements for Extreme Areas
X
Subpart 2
Section 182(e)(3)
Clean Fuels Requirement for Boilers
X
Subpart 2
Section 182(e)(4)
Traffic Control Measures During Heavy Traffic
Hours (Traffic Congestion Controls)
X
Subpart 2
Section 182(f)
NOx Requirements (applying VOC
requirements under Section 182)
X
Subpart 2
Section 182(g)
RFP Milestones (for Serious, Severe and
Extreme Areas)
X
Subpart 2
Section 184(b)(1)
Plan Provisions in Ozone Transport Regions
(Enhanced I/M and RACT)
X
Subpart 3
Section 186
Classification and Attainment Dates
X
Subpart 3
Section 187(a)(1)
Emissions Inventory
X
Subpart 3
Section 187(a)(2)
VMT for Moderate Areas
X
Subpart 3
Section 187(a)(3)
Contingency Measures for Moderate Area
X
Subpart 3
Section 187(a)(4)
I/M for Moderate Areas
X
Subpart 3
Section 187(a)(5)
Periodic Emissions Inventory
X
Subpart 3
Section 187(a)(6)
Enhanced I/M for Moderate Areas
X
Subpart 3
Section 187(a)(7)
Attainment Demonstration and Specific Annual
Emission Reductions
X
Subpart 3
Section 187(b)(2)
VMT for Serious Areas
X
Subpart 3
Section 187(b)(3)
Oxygenated Gasoline
X
Subpart 3
Section 187(c)
Areas with Significant Stationary Source VOC
Emissions
X
Subpart 3
Section 187(d)
CO Milestone
X
Subpart 3
Section 187(g)
Failure to Attain for Serious Areas
X
Subpart 4
Section 188
Classification and Attainment Dates
X
Section 189(a)(1)(A)
NNSR for Moderate Areas
X
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CAA Provisions
Requirement
Applicability
Plan
Identification
Ozone
CO
PM
so2
Pb
no2
Subpart 4
Section 189(a)(1)(B)
Attainment Demonstration or Infeasibility
Demonstration for Moderate Areas
X
Subpart 4
Section 182(a)(1)(C)
RACM for Moderate Areas
X
Subpart 4
Section 189(b)(1)(A)
Attainment Demonstration or Infeasibility
Demonstration for Serious Areas
X
Subpart 4
Section 189(b)(1)(B)
BACM for Serious Areas
X
Subpart 4
Section 189(b)(3)
NNSR for Serious Areas
X
Subpart 4
Section 189(c)
RFP Milestones
X
Subpart 4
Section 189(d)
Failure to Attain for Serious Areas
X
Subpart 4
Section 189(e)
Precursors
X
Subpart 5
Section 191
Plan Submission Deadlines
X
X
X
Subpart 5
Section 192
Attainment Dates
X
X
X
Acronyms
BACM- best available control measures
CO- carbon monoxide
I/M- inspection and maintenance
NAAQS- national ambient air quality standard
NNSR- nonattainment new source review
NOx- nitrogen oxides
Pb-lead
PM- particulate matter
RACM- reasonably available control measures
RACT- reasonably available control technology
RFP- reasonably further progress
SO2- sulfur dioxide
TCMs- transportation control measures
VMT- vehicle miles traveled
23
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Appendix C: MOA/ Joint Agreement Template for Early
Engagement15
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
EPA Region and
PURPOSE
The purpose of this document is to establish a joint agreement between EPA Region (hereinafter referred to as EPA region) and (hereinafter referred to
as air agency), outlining the key expectations for communication and planning between the two
parties during the development and review of state implementation plans (SIPs).
Both parties agree to annually review and update as appropriate this joint agreement and to abide
by the principles, best practices and expectations outlined below and that are a part of the
document, Best Practices for EPA, State and Local Agencies in the State Implementation Plan
Development and Review Process.
COMMUNICATION
EPA region and air agency recognize the importance of consistent communication which
includes sharing information of mutual interest and developing a relationship which will enable
parties to improve interpersonal communication over time. EPA region and air agency managers
should prioritize discussions relating to SIP issues and expectations, discussing interests openly
prior to the SIP submission.
EPA region and air agency intends to:
• Be transparent about substantive approvability issues.
• Work collaboratively and early to resolve any identified deficiencies or key policy or
legal issues in the submittal prior to submission of the SIP.
Both EPA and the air agency agree to try to operate as much as possible with a "no surprises"
approach so that there is transparency in communications between the agencies.
15 This document was developed by the NACAA/ECOS SIP Reform Workgroup (SRWG) in December 2016 and
provides a template agreement document for EPA and states to adopt that includes a set of commitments and best
practices to clear SIP backlogs and process new SIP revisions in a timely manner. The edits highlighted in blue in
underline/strikeout indicate changes to address the latest SIP lean effort.
24
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PLANNING
EPA region and air agency recognize the importance of collaboratively prioritizing SIP actions
to plan resources appropriately. To facilitate this, EPA region and air agency intends to:
• Hold routine conference calls (for example, monthly).
• Regularly identify and share a preliminary list of rules, SIPs, or policy projects that will
affect the SIP to facilitate workload discussions. (This list could include deliverable
products, persons involved, and a schedule of anticipated time frames).
• Coordinate the technical basis for the SIP revision to avoid duplication of effort and
therefore avoid delays in EPA's review process.
• Include management on the routine calls.
• Ensure that a protocol is in place for EPA and the states for managers to relay
information if not all staff can attend calls/meetings.
EPA region and air agency intend to:
• Meet in person annually (note: efficiency could be gained by timing with the CAA 105 or
Performance Partnership Agreement (PPA)/Performance Partnership Grant (PPG)
negotiations).
• EPA region will then complete the regional multi-year plan based on this information.
EARLY ENGAGEMENT
EPA region and air agency recognize the importance of coordination early in the SIP
development process. "Early engagement" is expected to support the development of approvable
SIPs and timely action on SIP submissions by EPA.
Air agencies will share plans for SIPs to be developed during annual workload planning
discussions with EPA. SIP Development Schedules will be developed by air agency and shared
with EPA to guide the planning process for each SIP revision.
To facilitate a thorough EPA review and early identification of approvabilitv issues, air agency
will make every effort to provide a complete draft of the SIP to the EPA region for review and
comment prior to its public comment period and at least 4 to 12 months prior to submittal. EPA
will have 30 days for review and comment on routine SIPs and up to 60 days for complex SIPs.
For complex SIPs, EPA would ideally receive pieces of the SIP as they are developed before
getting the complete draft for review.
EPA reviewers will review at this stage with a focus on identifying approvabilitv issues. EPA
region will engage all EPA offices that would eventually be involved in the review of the SIP
once formally submitted. EPA will make reasonable efforts to identify and provide feedback on
any approvabilitv issues as early as possible within this review period. If issues have been
elevated and will take more time than air agency can provide during the "early engagement"
review period. EPA region will keep the air agency apprised regarding the status of EPA's
review.
25
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EXPECTATIONS
During the SIP process, EPA region and air agency agree to:
A mutual understanding of each other's resources and resource constraints;
A mutual understanding of each state's approval/adoption process;
A mutual understanding of state/local administrative procedure laws/requirements;
A mutual understanding that if air agency chooses to not address the approvabilitv issues
identified by EPA, EPA would plan to take appropriate action such as disapproval or
return of an incomplete SIP.
Acknowledge that addressing and preventing the SIP backlog will require mutual actions
and commitments, and that regular and open communication is critical to reducing and
preventing the SIP backlog and prioritizing EPA actions on SIPs.
26
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