Under the Clean Air Act, EPA is required to carry out a periodic review and revision, as appropriate, of the air quality criteria and the primary and secondary standards for six criteria air pollutants, which include lead. EPA is currently reviewing the Lead National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). Primary standards set limits to protect public health, including the health of "sensitive" populations such as asthmatics, children, and the elderly. Secondary standards set limits to protect public welfare, including protection against decreased visibility, damage to animals, crops, vegetation, and buildings. As part of the NAAQS review process, EPA's Office of Research and Development has requested CASAC review of the Integrated Science Assessment for Lead (2023).
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