The Environmental Protection Agency is considering a rule change that would allow states to control public participation in the permitting process for certain air pollution sources. This shift could significantly impact how communities are informed about new or expanded facilities, particularly as data centers increasingly rely on fossil fuels for power.
Currently, major pollution sources undergo rigorous federal and state reviews, while minor sources face less oversight. If the proposed changes are enacted, states would have the authority to determine the level of public engagement, potentially reducing transparency and community involvement in environmental decision-making.