On September 29, 2011, U.S. EPA determined by Final Rule that the Cincinnati tri-state area met the April, 2010 deadline for attainment of the National Ambient Air Quality Standard for particulates (PM 2.5, 1997 annual average).  This Rule suspends the requirements for the Cincinnati Area to submit attainment demonstrations, associated reasonably available control measures (RACM), reasonable further progress (RFP) plans, contingency measures, and other planning State Implementation Plan revisions related to attainment of the 1997 particulate standard.  However, EPA’s Rule does not constitute a redesignation of the Cincinnati Area to attainment for the 1997 particulate standard, nor does the Rule approve maintenance plans for the Area as required by section 175A of the Clean Air Act.  The Rule is effective on October 31, 2011.