Embodiments of the invention provide amperometric analyte sensors having optimized elements such as interference rejection membranes as well as methods for making and using such sensors. The amperometric analyte sensor apparatus comprises: a base layer; a conductive layer disposed on the base layer and comprising a working electrode; an interference rejection membrane disposed on an electroactive surface of the working electrode, wherein the interference rejection membrane comprises poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) polymers crosslinked by an acid crosslinker, wherein the crosslinker is a dicarboxylic acid type monomer or a polymer comprising a carboxylic acid group; and an analyte sensing layer. While embodiments of the innovation can be used in a variety of contexts, typical embodiments of the invention include glucose sensors used in the management of diabetes.