US EPA

The Policy Assessment (PA) is a component of the NAAQS review that bridges the gap between the scientific assessment contained in the Integrated Science Assessment and the judgments required of the EPA Administrator in determining whether it is appropriate to retain or revise the NAAQS. The PA presents factors relevant to EPA’s review of the primary (health-based) and secondary (welfare-based) NAAQS. It focuses on both evidence- and risk-based information in evaluating the adequacy of the current NAAQS and, as appropriate, in identifying potential alternative standards for consideration. In so doing, the PA provides staff conclusions on the broadest array of options supported by the currently available scientific information.

The Policy Assessment is intended to help “bridge the gap” between the relevant scientific information and assessments and the judgments required of the EPA Administrator in determining whether, and if so how, it is appropriate to revise the NAAQS. This work is to be reviewed by the Clean Air Scientific Advisory Committee (CASAC). Following the review of the first draft of this document (Lead NAAQS Policy Assessment -1st Draft), as needed, a second draft will be produced and also provided to CASAC for review as well as made available to the public for review and comment.