What are Early Action Compacts?
In December 2002, a number of areas submitted agreements pledging to meet the 8-hour ozone standard earlier than required. Early voluntary 8-hour ozone air quality plans are developed through a Compact between local, State, and EPA officials. These Early Action Compacts (EACs) were available only to areas attaining the 1-hour ozone standard, but approaching or monitoring exceedances of the 8-hour standard. Areas and States with EACs had to meet a number of criteria, and have to meet certain milestones. In exchange, EPA agreed to officially defer 8-hour ozone nonattainment designations until September 30, 2005. Before September 30, 2005 (the date of the first deferral), EPA intends to promulgate the second deferred effective date until December 31, 2006, provided Compact areas meet required milestones. Before December 31, 2006, EPA intends to promulgate the third deferral until April 15, 2008, provided Compact areas complete all remaining milestones and reports. If areas meet all milest
