1. United States
2. R.I.
3. Letter

As a lifelong Rhode Islander, I take pride in how people describe our state: fresh ocean breezes, sea-salt air, and that unmistakable coastal clarity that makes locals and visitors alike breathe deeper. But lately, our “Ocean State” nickname is starting to feel more aspirational than descriptive. It’s imperative that the EPA return to enforcing strong air quality requirements for businesses and that the standards be raised to meet those set by the European Union. Rhode Island depends on clean air, not just for our health, but for our identity. Here’s why this matters deeply here at home: 1. Tourism depends on the air being as refreshing as the views. People don’t come to Narragansett or Newport to breathe in smog. They come for that crisp Atlantic bite in the air, the kind that makes even coffee taste better. If pollutants keep rising, we risk dulling the very thing that sets Rhode Island apart. Protecting air quality protects one of our biggest economic drivers: the experience of breathing easy by the sea. 2. Our small size means big impact, both ways. Rhode Island’s compact geography makes poor air quality travel fast and hit hard. A few unchecked industrial emissions or power sources can affect entire communities in hours, not days. Conversely, stronger air standards would make an immediate, measurable difference statewide. We’re small, but that means change here happens quickly: good or bad. 3. Healthy air is a local legacy. This state has always balanced industry and beauty, shipyards, factories, and fishing fleets, all thriving alongside beaches and nature reserves. But that balance tips when regulations lapse. We can lead the country in showing that clean air isn’t a luxury, it’s good business, good science, and good stewardship of our little piece of coastline. Clean air is Rhode Island’s signature scent: let’s keep it that way. I urge you to champion the EPA’s renewed commitment to enforcing air quality regulations and push for modernized, EU-level standards that reflect both the science and the spirit of our state. Thank you for your leadership and for helping keep the Ocean State’s air just that, ocean-fresh.