Multiple States Take Legal Action Against EPA Over Wood-Burning Stove Standards

Attorneys general from 10 states, including Illinois, are planning to sue the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) over its failure to review and ensure emissions standards for residential wood-burning stoves. The states argue that the EPA's current standards are inadequate and its testing and certification program is ineffective, allowing the sale of appliances that worsen pollution. They claim that programs encouraging the replacement of older stoves may provide little health benefits if newer models do not meet cleaner standards. The EPA's Office of Inspector General has previously found flaws in the agency's performance standards for wood heaters.