"This rule signifies EPA´s commitment to working with communities to develop cost-effective plans," said Bill Wehrum, EPA acting assistant administrator for air and radiation.

The Phase II Ozone Implementation Rule outlines emission control and planning requirements for states to address as they develop their plans demonstrating how they will reduce ozone pollution to meet the 8-hour ozone standard.

A recent EPA analysis found that moving from the 2000-2002 monitored ozone levels to full attainment with the 8-hour standards would yield substantial health benefits. The analysis indicates the new standard each year could result in a reduction of hundreds of premature deaths, thousands of hospital admissions, and more than 900,000 school absences, according to the EPA.

Ground-level ozone, a primary ingredient in smog, is formed when volatile organic compounds and nitrogen oxides react chemically in the presence of sunlight. Cars, trucks, power plants and industrial facilities are primary sources for the emissions.

The Phase II rule requires states to demonstrate through modeling that nonattainment areas will attain the 8-hour ozone standard as expeditiously as possible.

The rule also outlines new source review requirements for areas not meeting the 8-hour standard.

Information about the new rule is available online at www.epa.gov/ozonedesignations.