HOUSTON (June 7, 2012)--The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is proposing approval of parts of Texas' clean air plan, setting aside some of the issues that have long been points of contention.

The EPA's announcement Thursday came after years of bitter bickering between the federal agency and the state over environmental regulation, including the federal agency's move almost two years ago to overturn a long-term permitting program it said did not meet federal clean air rules.

The EPA is proposing to approve a plan by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality that would give operating flexibility to major sources of air pollution, such as refineries.

The plan would require continuous monitoring of separate operating units under a general cap of emissions.

The EPA said Texas' plan meets federal clean air laws.

After publication in the Federal Register, the EPA will seek public comment for 30 days before making a final decision.