Approval and Promulgation of Air Quality Implementation Plans; Pennsylvania; Motor Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance Program-Request for Delay in the Incorporation of On-Board Diagnostics Testing

EPA is taking direct final action to approve a revision to the Pennsylvania State Implementation Plan (SIP). Pennsylvania has requested a one-year extension of the Federal deadline to incorporate electronic checks of on-board diagnostic (OBD) computer systems of 1996-and-newer vehicles into the Commonwealth's motor vehicle emissions inspection and maintenance (I/M) program. EPA's rules governing I/M programs required states to add OBD checks to their I/M programs by January 1, 2002. However, EPA's same rule provides states the option to submit a request for delay of this deadline by up to one additional year, provided each state making such a request demonstrates to EPA that such a delay was necessary. Pennsylvania has requested the maximum delay provided for by EPA's regulations (i.e., until January 1, 2003) in commencing OBD checks as part of its I/M program. EPA has reviewed Pennsylvania's request, and is proposing through this action to grant Pennsylvania's request for a one year extension of the OBD testing deadline in accordance with the requirements of the Clean Air Act.