Assembly passes bills loosening air regs

MADISON, Wis. (AP) - The state Assembly has passed two bills that would scale back sections of Wisconsin's air pollution regulations.

One bill would prohibit the state Department of Natural Resources from requiring permits for indirect sources of pollution such as parking lots and highways that attract motor vehicles.

The other bill would stop the DNR from creating stricter standards on hazardous air pollution from manure than federal regulators.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has yet to implement any such regulations, but the DNR had planned to require farmers adopt best practices for controlling emissions ahead of the federal agency. The bill essentially would halt the DNR's efforts.

Both bills passed on voice votes with no debate.

The state Senate approved both bills earlier this week. They now go to Gov. Scott Walker.