Are EAC areas eligible for CMAQ funding under the 8-hour ozone standard?
RESPONSE: Although EAC areas will be designated nonattainment in April 2004, the effective date of their designation will be deferred. Unless and until the nonattainment designation becomes effective, EAC areas are not considered nonattainment for the 8-hour standard. Consequently, these areas are not eligible for CMAQ funds for purposes of nonattainment planning under the 8-hour standard. However, EAC areas that are currently subject to a maintenance plan for the 1-hour standard under section 175A of the CAA are eligible for CMAQ funds. As long as they were maintenance areas after December 31, 1997, these areas would remain eligible for CMAQ funds until the 1-hour standard is revoked.
