There are still environmental worries to be addressed, and policymakers must not lose momentum on that front. But there was good news this week as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced Ohio is no longer on the list of states that do not meet clean air standards.

“The air is cleaner. What that means for families in Ohio: Your children are healthier. What it means for businesses in Ohio is that they are more competitive,” said U.S. EPA Region 5 Administrator Anne Vogel.

This is not only a success to celebrate, it could also mean a change for Ohio drivers one day. Because the state had been considered out of attainment of the EPA’s clean air standards, e-check requirements remained in place for vehicles in seven northeast Ohio counties. Ohio EPA Director John Logue told WJW News in Cleveland not to expect such a change any time soon, but the possibility exists.

“For Ohio to hit this milestone, Cleveland hit this milestone, is really, really important. because quite frankly, taking care of the environment and being good stewards is not really a partisan issue,” said U.S. Sen. Bernie Moreno, R-Ohio, according to WJW.

It’s not a partisan issue, and it’s just common sense. Now, we have a good idea about what works even as we look for new ways to do better. Households, communities, state officials, businesses … everyone who has worked over the decades to clean up our air, land and water can pat themselves on the back for this accomplishment.

After that, they can take a deep breath … and get back to work.