Virginia Air Pollution Control Board

The Virginia Air Pollution Control Board (APCB) is the body responsible for adopting regulations related to air quality and emissions standards in the state. It plays an important role in setting the regulatory framework for coal dust and other airborne pollutants.

The Board has faced criticism for its failure to adopt more stringent regulations to control coal dust pollution in Hampton Roads. Advocacy groups have called for the board to implement stronger air quality standards and for more aggressive action to reduce coal dust exposure. Given its regulatory authority, the APCB plays a key role in determining how effectively Virginia addresses coal dust pollution in the future.

Role

The APCB has the authority to establish air quality standards, including those related to coal dust. It reviews and approves permits for coal-handling facilities and is responsible for ensuring that air quality standards are met. The board also has the power to implement stricter controls on emissions if warranted by the data on coal dust pollution.

• Special Orders (10.1-1309)

Membership

The APCB is composed of seven members appointed by the Governor for four-year terms. Vacancies (other than by term expiring) are also filled by the Governor appointment for the remainder of the term. Members are required to be citizens of Virginia and selected based on merit (such as education, training, and experience), not politics (§ 10.1-1301, 1302.).

Members in 2025 (note that terms expire on the listed date or upon appointment of a replacement, whichever is later).

• Kimberly Beamer (term expires 6/30/2027), from Roanoke, VA
• David Hudgins (term expires 6/30/2025), from Richmond, VA
• James Patrick Guy II (6/30/2026), from Saxe, VA
• Emily Domenech (6/30/2028), from Alexandria, VA
• Ronald Jefferson (6/30/2028), from Moneta, VA
• Crystal Bazyk (6/30/2029), from Meadowview, VA

Documents

Thomson, V. Climate of Capitulation. 3 Roda: Coal, Dust, and Inequality. 2017.