Wes Hickman (202-224-5972) or Kevin Bishop (864-250-1417)

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today made the following statement on York County and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). “I am disappointed that any portion of the county was considered to be out of attainment. I think we made a strong case as to why we should not have been lumped in with Charlotte-Mecklenburg. However, I also understand the EPA’s decision could have been worse and am glad they chose not to place the entire county in non-attainment. “The county and state, on their own initiative, have put in place air quality remedies. It’s my hope and belief this will achieve the goal of providing better air quality and minimize further action by the EPA. “Over the coming days and weeks, we’ll study this decision and see what it holds for the future. I will continue to closely monitor this situation and see what further steps, if any, can and should be taken. Needless to say, I remain concerned that today’s decision will have a negative impact on future economic development efforts in the county.” #####