NEWS BRIEF
Colorado Public Radio reports that the Colorado Air Quality Control Commission unanimously approved updated Regulation 7 requirements for oil and gas operations. The rules add stricter standards for equipment used to capture or control methane and other pollution, including continuous monitoring and repairs when enclosed combustion devices have emissions.
The regulations are intended to meet 2024 federal methane standards, according to the report. Colorado became the first state to fully adopt those standards, which the article says go beyond the federal minimum guidelines. State regulators are expected to submit their compliance plan to the Environmental Protection Agency by January.
What to know
The updated rules focus on whether methane-control equipment is operating effectively, rather than establishing that every emission source will be eliminated. Colorado Public Radio reports the changes also address pollution that contributes to Front Range ozone.
Reporting: Colorado Public Radio · 09-22-2026
