The epa has to look like it is doing something for the good of mankind in order to keep receiving funding. However; the epa has bigger fish to fry than Joe Blow painting his car or motorcycle in his garage. You might have some positive effect by going to the epa web site and voicing your opinion, but I seriously doubt it.
Having dealt with the epa, state and local governments in several states for several years now, the epa doesn't have the manpower or current funding to support additional regulators so, what this appears to me, is just a bunch of eyewash to appease some irritated environmentalists. I don't think that we as auto/motorcycle racers and restorers will have a lot to worry about for a long time. But, you know, I could be wrong.
Suggestion: Keep your doors closed and your moth shut when you do ANY painting using automotive/toxic paints having a VOC and HAP content.
As for not being able to buy automotive paint unless you are certified. What constitutes "certified"? Has the epa even addressed certification requirements yet? NO. When they do decide out what constitutes certification, I would bet that just about anyone could pass the "test". Just more time, money and paperwork!
Next: There are new and improved low emission paints and solvents being developed all the time. Maybe some company is already working on getting approval for their LE paint. Might be the company behind all this huff.
Next: There are new LE spray guns being developed all the time. Why not use one?
Finally: Wouldn't it be better to paint inside a dust-free temporary filtered spray booth? Currently (and this isn't changing that I am aware of) anyone producing less than 10 tons of voc or hap is a minor source and could get a synthetic minor air permit, but you don't have to go through all that. Just demonstrate that you are below the de minimas levels of emission and no reporting requirements or permits are required.
Well, I’ll get off my soapbox now.
Terry A. Hume
www.safety-environmental.com