Chad Darby critiques Oregon's air quality permitting inefficiencies in legislative testimony

A significant concern regarding Oregon's air quality permitting process was raised during the House Committee on Climate, Energy, and Environment meeting on May 29, 2025. Chad Darby, a principal air quality consultant, highlighted the inefficiencies and delays plaguing the Clean Air Oregon (CAO) program, which has only processed seven facilities in over six years. He pointed out that the lengthy and complicated risk assessment requirements have led to substantial financial burdens on businesses, with one facility spending nearly $300,000 to prove it posed a minimal risk to human health.

Darby emphasized that the current regulatory framework is not only time-consuming but also detrimental to air quality management. He noted that outdated permits prevent facilities from conducting necessary emissions testing, potentially allowing non-compliance with newer regulations. With nearly half of Oregon's Title V permits expired, the urgency for reform is clear.

The consultant urged the committee to consider a budget note similar to one from 2015 that evaluated the water quality program, suggesting that an external review could help identify systemic challenges within the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). He argued that a more streamlined permitting process is essential for fostering a healthy economy while maintaining clean air standards.

In response to questions from committee members, Darby indicated that at least three companies have either shut down or relocated due to the burdensome permitting process. He called for benchmarking studies against other states, particularly those with more efficient systems, to improve Oregon's air quality permitting landscape. The meeting underscored the pressing need for regulatory reform to balance environmental protection with economic viability.