American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

The Clean Air Act grants states the responsibility for plan implementation. "Primacy" does not refer to which of the following?

1. Responsibility for development and enforcement of the plan

2. Responsibility for identifying emission limits for specific sources

3. Responsibility for approving plans and any revisions

4. Responsibility for public awareness and education

The correct answer is: Responsibility for approving plans and any revisions

The term "primacy" in the context of the Clean Air Act refers to the authority granted to states to manage their own air quality programs and enforce regulations. This generally encompasses several responsibilities, including the development of air quality plans, the enforcement of those plans, and the setting of emission limits for specific sources of pollution. Responsibility for approving plans and any revisions is typically a collaborative process between the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and state authorities. While states do play a critical role in the development and implementation of air quality standards, the ultimate authority to approve these plans rests with the EPA, which is responsible for ensuring that state plans meet federal standards. Therefore, "C" does not accurately reflect what "primacy" entails in the context of the Clean Air Act, as it does not assign the sole responsibility of plan approval and revisions to the states. In contrast, the other responsibilities mentioned all fall within the state's purview when they hold primacy. They are tasked with developing the plans (including emission limits), enforcing regulations, and raising public awareness about air quality issues, thereby embodying the comprehensive authority that comes with having primacy under the Clean Air Act.