The Environmental Protection Agency has proposed new rules for engines under 25 horsepower, which power nearly all walk-behind and riding lawnmowers, as well as small generators and other devices. The rule is intended to cut smog-forming emissions from the engines by 35 percent probably  by adding catalytic converters that reduce pollution from exhaust. The new rule would take effect in 2011 for riding mowers and 2012 for push mowers. It would apply only to new engines.  The new rule also would put new emission controls on powerboat and outboard engines starting with the 2009 model year that would result in a 70% reduction in smog-forming emmissions from those engines.

                                            Noise pollution

Anne Arundel County has become the first county in Maryland to enforce the state's more stringent noise pollution laws, according to the County Excutive John  R. Leopold. Police can fine people up to $10,000.00 for each day they are cited for exceeding 65 decibels from 11 P.M.  to 7 A.M., and 75 decibels at other times. The county focus for enforcement will be on nighttime noise in residential neighborhoods. An Officer must witness the act just like a traffic violation , to cite an infraction. Six officers have been trained to use the noise meter.