Editor:

The Environmental Protection Agency will soon rule on its proposal to tighten air quality standards to such an extent it could have serious consequences for our economy, particularly our state's energy sector.

If counties do not achieve the new ozone standard, they could lose federal highway funding and be forced to devote more local tax funds for compliance.

Under the current standard, no Wyoming counties violate EPA rules. With the new standard, Campbell, Sublette and Teton counties could be in violation. County governments, towns and businesses such as those engaged in the exploration and distribution of natural gas and oil would be responsible for achieving the standard and could be subject to EPA lawsuits if they don't.

The problem with this particular Washington mandate is that there is no clear scientific evidence that lowering the ozone standard would have any marked effect on improving the environment or people's health. But, clearly, if a new obstacle is placed in the way of our energy sector, it will upset our state's economy and drive greater dependence on foreign sources.

The current standard is working and should be maintained, not tightened at this time.

JEFF EASTWOOD, Casper