APE | Documents

EDGI and Toxic Docs are collecting thousands of internal government documents on the environment obtained by public interest groups through the Freedom of Information Act. Search the repository at the link below.

LINK TO THIS ARTICLE

https://www.apeoplesepa.org/modules/foia-environmental-repository-at-toxic-docs

SOURCE

FOIA Environmental Repository

CITATION

https://edgifoia.toxicdocs.org/

Federal Organization for Environmental Protection

UPLOADED 02 December 2020

This memo from the President's Advisory Council on Executive Organization (PACEO), better known as the "Ash Council',” recommended that "key anti-pollution programs be merged into an Environmental Protection Administration, a new independent agency of the Executive Branch." This new agency would be the "principal instrument" for fulfilling the president’s pledge to "repair the damage already done, and to establish new criteria to guide us in the future."

The memo claimed that the "environmental crisis" was the result of "vastly increased per capita consumption, intensified by population growth, urbanization, and changing industrial processes." The rationale presented for an independent EPA was that: 1) There was a need to consider environmental protection in a unified way; 2) There should be a separate agency for setting key standards for other agencies so that the interests of those other agencies would not affect the standards. Consolidating these functions in a single agency would also have the benefit of simplifying intergovernmental and business relationships.

The Ash Council proposed that the key functions of the agency should be: scientific research, standard-setting, monitoring, and enforcement. It also proposed reorganizing the agency around those functions as opposed to organizing offices by the source, media, location, or effects of pollution. Doing the latter would mean not recognizing the interrelated aspects of pollution and environmental problems. The memo outlined why it rejected alternative organizational plans: A combined Department of Natural Resources and Environment would, the memo said, subject standard-setting to pressures of resource development. Putting the agency in any existing department would result in one department regulating others, which would not be ideal. Nor would creating a small, strictly standard-setting agency. This would leave monitoring and enforcement fragmented across departments.

Follow the link below to read the full text.

This memo from the President's Advisory Council on Executive Organization (PACEO), better known as the "Ash Council',” recommended that "key anti-pollution programs be merged into an Environmental Protection Administration, a new independent agency of the Executive Branch." This new agency would be the "principal instrument" for fulfilling the president’s pledge to "repair the damage already done, and to establish new criteria to guide us in the future."

The memo claimed that the "environmental crisis" was the result of "vastly increased per capita consumption, intensified by population growth, urbanization, and changing industrial processes." The rationale presented for an independent EPA was that: 1) There was a need to consider environmental protection in a unified way; 2) There should be a separate agency for setting key standards for other agencies so that the interests of those other agencies would not affect the standards. Consolidating these functions in a single agency would also have the benefit of simplifying intergovernmental and business relationships.

The Ash Council proposed that the key functions of the agency should be: scientific research, standard-setting, monitoring, and enforcement. It also proposed reorganizing the agency around those functions as opposed to organizing offices by the source, media, location, or effects of pollution. Doing the latter would mean not recognizing the interrelated aspects of pollution and environmental problems. The memo outlined why it rejected alternative organizational plans: A combined Department of Natural Resources and Environment would, the memo said, subject standard-setting to pressures of resource development. Putting the agency in any existing department would result in one department regulating others, which would not be ideal. Nor would creating a small, strictly standard-setting agency. This would leave monitoring and enforcement fragmented across departments.

Follow the link below to read the full text.

LINK TO THIS ARTICLE

https://www.apeoplesepa.org/modules/federal-organization-for-environmental-protection

SOURCE

Environmental Protection Agency

CITATION

Ash Council (PACEO), "Federal Organization for Environmental Protection," [Memo], April 29, 1970

Reorganization Plans To Establish the Environmental Protection Agency

UPLOADED 02 December 2020

President Nixon's message, which drew substantially on the Ash Council memo from April 29, 1970, noted that the government's approach to the environment had grown up piecemeal over the years. It was necessary to reorganize the federal government to effectively ensure environmental protection. To that end, the federal government needed an agency that could take a coordinated approach to pollution. That would mean abandoning anti-pollution approaches that were designed primarily along lines of media (air, water, land) or types of pollutants. The proposed new agency, the EPA, could do this, provided it had sufficient support for research, monitoring, standard-setting, enforcement and aid to states.

In proposing this new agency, the president said he was "making an exception to one of my own principles: ‘new independent agencies normally should not be created.’" There was a compelling reason for doing this for the EPA, according to Nixon however, because putting these functions in a department with other goals could unduly influence the anti-pollution functions. It would require that department to constantly make decisions affecting other departments. Nixon also noted the difference between the EPA and the Council on Environmental Quality: "the Council focuses on what our broad policies in the environmental field should be; the EPA would focus on setting and enforcing pollution control standards."

Follow the link below to read the full text.

President Nixon's message, which drew substantially on the Ash Council memo from April 29, 1970, noted that the government's approach to the environment had grown up piecemeal over the years. It was necessary to reorganize the federal government to effectively ensure environmental protection. To that end, the federal government needed an agency that could take a coordinated approach to pollution. That would mean abandoning anti-pollution approaches that were designed primarily along lines of media (air, water, land) or types of pollutants. The proposed new agency, the EPA, could do this, provided it had sufficient support for research, monitoring, standard-setting, enforcement and aid to states.

In proposing this new agency, the president said he was "making an exception to one of my own principles: ‘new independent agencies normally should not be created.’" There was a compelling reason for doing this for the EPA, according to Nixon however, because putting these functions in a department with other goals could unduly influence the anti-pollution functions. It would require that department to constantly make decisions affecting other departments. Nixon also noted the difference between the EPA and the Council on Environmental Quality: "the Council focuses on what our broad policies in the environmental field should be; the EPA would focus on setting and enforcing pollution control standards."

Follow the link below to read the full text.

LINK TO THIS ARTICLE

https://www.apeoplesepa.org/modules/reorganization-plans

SOURCE

American Presidency Project, University of California Santa Barbara

CITATION

Richard Nixon, "Special Message to the Congress About Reorganization Plans To Establish the Environmental Protection Agency and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration," July 9, 1970

Special Message to the Congress on Environmental Quality

UPLOADED 02 December 2020

In this speech to Congress, President Nixon argued that abuse of the natural environment had gone on too long. He called for, among other things, "stricter regulations," "expanded government action," "greater citizen involvement," and "new programs to ensure that government, industry and individuals" do their jobs and pay their share of costs. He laid out a 37-point program that would comprehensively consider pollution, waste and recreation, rather than treating these in isolation. Under the subject of "Organizing for Action," he argued that deep, widespread environmental problems could only be solved through a "full national effort embracing not only sound, coordinated planning, but also an effective follow-through that reaches into every community." He announced he had directed the Ash Council to study how best to organize the executive to deal with environmental issues.

Follow the link below to read the full text.

In this speech to Congress, President Nixon argued that abuse of the natural environment had gone on too long. He called for, among other things, "stricter regulations," "expanded government action," "greater citizen involvement," and "new programs to ensure that government, industry and individuals" do their jobs and pay their share of costs. He laid out a 37-point program that would comprehensively consider pollution, waste and recreation, rather than treating these in isolation. Under the subject of "Organizing for Action," he argued that deep, widespread environmental problems could only be solved through a "full national effort embracing not only sound, coordinated planning, but also an effective follow-through that reaches into every community." He announced he had directed the Ash Council to study how best to organize the executive to deal with environmental issues.

Follow the link below to read the full text.

LINK TO THIS ARTICLE

https://www.apeoplesepa.org/modules/special-message-environmental-quality

SOURCE

American Presidency Project, University of California Santa Barbara

CITATION

Richard Nixon, "Special Message to the Congress on Environmental Quality," February 10, 1970

February 2021 Newsfeed

UPLOADED 30 April 2021

A People's EPA (APE)

February Newsfeed

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February 22, 2021

EPA Changes Stand, Sides with Ethanol Industry in Court Cases (Iowa AP, February 22, 2021)

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February 16, 2021

EPA Awards $220M Contracts for Uranium Mine Cleanup (Albuquerque Journal, February 16, 2021)

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February 12, 2021

Biden EPA Asks D.C. Circuit to Freeze Mandate on Clean Power Plan (Bloomberg Law, February 12, 2021)

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February 9, 2021

Biden won't Revive Obama's Clean Power Plan. So Now What? (E&E News, February 9, 2021)

EPA Alleges Political Interference by Trump Officials over Toxic Chemical (The Hill, February 9, 2021)

Mary Nichols was the Early Favorite to Run Biden’s EPA, Before She Became a ‘Casualty’(Inside Climate News, February 9, 2021)

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February 8, 2021

EPA Nominee Regan Touts Collaboration during Senate Confirmation Hearing (The Great Lakes Now, February 8, 2021)

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February 5, 2021

Biden’s EPA Ends Appeal, Cementing DTE Energy-Sierra Club Settlement (The Detroit News, February 5, 2021)

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February 3, 2021

Biden’s EPA Nominee Vows ‘Urgency’ on Climate Change (Washington Post, February 3, 2021)

Sen. Duckworth Wants EPA To Install Metal Emission Monitors At Sauget Incinerator (St. Louis Public Radio, February 3, 2021)

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February 1, 2021

Judge Throws Out Trump Rule Limiting What Science EPA Can Use (Washington Post, February 1, 2021)

A People's EPA (APE)

February Newsfeed

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February 22, 2021

EPA Changes Stand, Sides with Ethanol Industry in Court Cases (Iowa AP, February 22, 2021)

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February 16, 2021

EPA Awards $220M Contracts for Uranium Mine Cleanup (Albuquerque Journal, February 16, 2021)

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February 12, 2021

Biden EPA Asks D.C. Circuit to Freeze Mandate on Clean Power Plan (Bloomberg Law, February 12, 2021)

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February 9, 2021

Biden won't Revive Obama's Clean Power Plan. So Now What? (E&E News, February 9, 2021)

EPA Alleges Political Interference by Trump Officials over Toxic Chemical (The Hill, February 9, 2021)

Mary Nichols was the Early Favorite to Run Biden’s EPA, Before She Became a ‘Casualty’(Inside Climate News, February 9, 2021)

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February 8, 2021

EPA Nominee Regan Touts Collaboration during Senate Confirmation Hearing (The Great Lakes Now, February 8, 2021)

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February 5, 2021

Biden’s EPA Ends Appeal, Cementing DTE Energy-Sierra Club Settlement (The Detroit News, February 5, 2021)

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February 3, 2021

Biden’s EPA Nominee Vows ‘Urgency’ on Climate Change (Washington Post, February 3, 2021)

Sen. Duckworth Wants EPA To Install Metal Emission Monitors At Sauget Incinerator (St. Louis Public Radio, February 3, 2021)

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February 1, 2021

Judge Throws Out Trump Rule Limiting What Science EPA Can Use (Washington Post, February 1, 2021)

LINK TO THIS ARTICLE

https://www.apeoplesepa.org/modules/february-2021-newsfeed

Environmental Data & Governance Initiative, "10 Ways Biden Should Fix the EPA"

UPLOADED 13 April 2021

This article argues for the need to remake, not just restore, the EPA in order to tackle growing problems with climate exchange, environmental justice, and toxic pollutants, among other things. It offers ten fixes: 1) take quick action on climate by rejoining the Paris Climate agreement and reversing regulatory rollbacks; 2) restore EPA staff and budget; 3) keep industry out of EPA decision-making; 4) make environmental justice a priority; 5) strengthen safeguards for toxic like lead and vulnerable populations like pregnant women and children; 6) reinvigorate science by funding research, attracting scientists, and incorporating more into decision-making; 7) enforce the law vigorously; 8) better collect, integrate and make accessible data on enforcement and monitoring; 9) steward educational information better; 10) partner with the public on citizen science and public communication and education programs.

LINK TO THIS ARTICLE

https://www.apeoplesepa.org/modules/environmental-data-governance-initiative-10-ways-biden-should-fix-the-epa

SOURCE

Vox

CITATION

Marianne Sullivan and Christopher Sellers, “10 Ways Biden Should Fix the EPA,” Vox, December 17, 2020.

Program on Reproductive Health and the Environment, "Recommendations to Strengthen EPA and its Mission to Protect Public Health"

UPLOADED 05 March 2021

The PRHE collaborated with scientists and chemical policy experts to develop recommendations to improve hazard and risk assessment, and prevent harms from chemicals and pollutants. Its key recommendations were: 1) Assessing hazards and risks of chemicals using more representative definitions of susceptible populations and quantification of risks for all health effects, both cancer and noncancer, at all anticipated levels of exposure. 2) Adoption of a “science-based, validated systemic review” method for evaluation of chemical harms. 3) Ensure outcomes of environmental laws and policies result in equal protection, not environmental disparities. 4) Laws to make science free from financial conflicts of interest from industry. 5) Invest in up-to-date research and data infrastructure to better identify and prioritize harms, risks and interventions.

LINK TO THIS ARTICLE

https://www.apeoplesepa.org/modules/recommendations-to-strengthen-epa-and-its-mission-to-protect-public-health

SOURCE

Program on Reproductive Health and the Environment, University of California San Francisco

CITATION

Program on Reproductive Health and the Environment, "Recommendations to Strengthen EPA and its Mission to Protect Public Health," PRHE Blog, no date.

Joe Biden for President, “The Biden Plan to Secure Environmental Justice and Equitable Economic Opportunity"

UPLOADED 13 April 2021

Presidential candidate Joe Biden’s campaign laid out a plan for environmental justice that would utilize an “All-of-Government” approach; use data and science to drive decisions; prioritize environmental justice in use of resources; and assess risks to communities from future public health emergencies. Among other things, the plan called for the creation of an Environmental and Climate Justice Division within the Department of Justice to pursue EJ-related cases in concert with the EPA’s Office of Civil Rights. The plan also included an overhaul of the EPA’s External Civil Rights Compliance Office to increase its effectiveness in mitigating impacts for frontline and fenceline communities. Along the same lines, the plan sought public input how the agency should handle Title VI (anti-discrimination) complaints. And it sought to reinstitute a private right of action to sue under Title VI. Regarding the use of data and science, the plan stated that the administration will resuscitate and expand the EPA’s EJSCREEN tool, which would assist government agencies and communities in identifying threats to communities. Expansion of data collection and dissemination would include mandated monitoring of frontline and fenceline communities and requirements that industries directly notify communities, in real time, about releases of hazardous and toxic chemicals. The plan included several other policies and programs, some especially relevant to the EPA such as regulations relating to air pollution in disadvantaged communities and water pollution from PFAS.

LINK TO THIS ARTICLE

https://www.apeoplesepa.org/modules/joe-biden-for-president-the-biden-plan-to-secure-environmental-justice-and-equitable-economic-opportunity

SOURCE

Joe Biden for President

CITATION

Joe Biden for President, “The Biden Plan to Secure Environmental Justice and Equitable Economic Opportunity,” Joe Biden for President: Official Campaign Website, 2020.

Joe Biden for President, “The Biden Plan for A Clean Energy Revolution and Environmental Justice"

UPLOADED 13 April 2021

This plan emphasized the transition to a 100% clean energy economy; infrastructure investments to boost the economy and climate resilience; a recommitment to the Paris Agreement; action against fossil fuel polluters, especially in context of environmental justice; and not leaving workers and communities behind in the transition. The EPA’s role in this plan was noted in regard to action against fossil fuel polluters. The Biden plan stated that he would direct the DOJ to pursue criminal cases against violators, including holding corporate executive personally accountable.

LINK TO THIS ARTICLE

https://www.apeoplesepa.org/modules/joe-biden-for-president-the-biden-plan-for-a-clean-energy-revolution-and-environmental-justice

SOURCE

Joe Biden for President

CITATION

Joe Biden for President, “The Biden Plan for A Clean Energy Revolution and Environmental Justice,” Joe Biden for President: Official Campaign Website, 2020.

Environmental Defense Fund, "With Biden declared the winner, a window opens for climate, equity and public health"

UPLOADED 05 March 2021

The EDF called not only repairing, but rebuilding the federal government’s approach to the environment. The organization outlined three priorities: 1) Policies that will allow a fast shift toward renewable energy, including making electrical vehicles and their infrastructure more available. 2) Taking responsibility for climate change, including rejoining the Paris climate agreement and rebuilding scientific staff at the EPA. 3) Protecting communities from environmental health threats, including having the EPA “fulfill its commitment” to President Clinton’s executive order on environmental justice (EO 12898). “It’s not enough to make up for four lost years, we have to rebuild an America that’s healthier and more equitable than it has ever been,” the EDF concluded.

LINK TO THIS ARTICLE

https://www.apeoplesepa.org/modules/with-biden-declared-the-winner-a-window-opens-for-climate-equity-and-public-health

SOURCE

Environmental Defense Fund

CITATION

Fred Krupp, "With Biden declared the winner, a window opens for climate, equity and public health," EDF Voices Blog, November 8, 2020.

Environmental Protection Network, “Resetting the Course of EPA Report”

UPLOADED 14 April 2021

This extensive report, with several substantial supporting documents, from former EPA staff outlined six priorities for renewing the EPA: 1) a reaffirmation from the agency of its commitment to public health and the environment; 2) scientific and economic analysis free from political interference; 3) the incorporation of environmental justice into all aspects of the agency’s work; 4) a focus on the most significant and pervasive public health and environmental risks; 5) innovation and collaboration with other federal agencies, stakeholders and local, state and tribal governments; 6) re-establishment of public trust in the agency through demonstrated action and transparency.

LINK TO THIS ARTICLE

https://www.apeoplesepa.org/modules/environmental-protection-network-resetting-the-course-of-epa-report

SOURCE

Environmental Protection Network

CITATION

Environmental Protection Network, “Resetting the Course of EPA Report,” Environmental Protection Network, August 2020.

Environment America & U.S. PIRG, “First Things to Fix”

UPLOADED 14 April 2021

This report suggested five actions the Biden administration could take early on to protect the environment: 1) rejoin the Paris Climate agreement; 2) repeal the “Dirty Water Rule” (the Trump EPA’s CWA rule from 2020); 3) strengthen EPA fuel economy standards and affirm California’s authority to set emissions standards; 4) withdraw Trump draft 5-year plan on offshore drilling; and 5) restore DOE energy efficiency policy for appliances weakened by the Trump administration.

LINK TO THIS ARTICLE

https://www.apeoplesepa.org/modules/environment-america-u-s-pirg-first-things-to-fix

SOURCE

Environment America

CITATION

Environment America & U.S. PIRG, “First Things to Fix,” Environment America Research & Policy Center and U.S. PIRG Education Fund, 2021.

Environmental Data & Governance Initiative, "Access Denied: Federal Web Governance Under the Trump Administration"

UPLOADED 14 April 2021

This report analyzed the Trump administration’s management of federal websites related to environmental regulation and made recommendations for the Biden administration moving forward. The suggestions included: 1) Creating meaningful resources to expand civic and scientific literacy. This would include building ladders of information on websites, incorporating the scientific basis for regulations on websites, and providing mechanisms for public feedback about web resources. 2) Ensuring that resources are available, discoverable and navigable. And that the public is made aware of opportunities for civic engagement. 3) Preserving public web resources. This would include an accessible archive of web resources, requirements for notice and explanation of content removal, and a database describing changes to websites.

LINK TO THIS ARTICLE

https://www.apeoplesepa.org/modules/environmental-data-governance-association-access-denied-federal-web-governance-under-the-trump-administration

SOURCE

Environmental Data & Governance Initiative

CITATION

Gretchen Gehrke, Marcy Beck, Alejandro Paz, Amy Wilson, Eric Nost, Grace Poudrier, EDGI, "Access Denied: Federal Web Governance Under the Trump Administration," Environmental Data & Governance Initiative, February, 2021

World Resources Institute, “7 Ways the Biden Administration Can Reverse Climate Rollbacks"

UPLOADED 14 April 2021

The World Resources Institute argued that it would not be enough to simply reverse the rollbacks of the Trump administration. The lost time for action during the Trump administration and looming threats meant that the administration needs to “roll forward.” The key ways to do this, the WRI, stated were: 1) return science to the center of decision-making and elevate frontline voices; 2) establish the U.S. as a global climate leader; 3) reinstate emission standards and advance zero-emissions vehicle performance standards; 4) rescind the replacement rule for the Clean Power Plan and develop new standards; 5) reinstate and strengthen methane rules for oil and gas; 6) repeal new methane rule for low-carbon steel and cementer and set new standards; 7) set stronger efficiency standards and encourage building electrification. The recommendations noted the role of the EPA in rescinding and developing regulations and the need to better include frontline community members in decision-making processes at the EPA.

LINK TO THIS ARTICLE

https://www.apeoplesepa.org/modules/world-resources-institute-7-ways-the-biden-administration-can-reverse-climate-rollbacks

SOURCE

World Resources Institute

CITATION

Tyler Clevenger and Dan Lashof, “7 Ways the Biden Administration Can Reverse Climate Rollbacks,” World Resources Institute, January 19, 2021.

Safer Chemicals, Healthy Families, “The First 3 Things Biden’s EPA Must Do to Protect Americans from Toxic Chemicals"

UPLOADED 14 April 2021

Safer Chemicals, Health Families group was encouraged by President Biden’s initial executive orders directing EPA to review actions by the Trump administration related to the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). They were also encouraged to see three items on Biden’s “Build Back Better” list that accorded with their priorities: 1) Develop a ban, or stronger protections, for methylene chloride; 2) revisit regulations related to persistent bioaccumulative toxic (PBT) chemicals to comply with TSCA; 3) reconsider chemical risks to include all conditions of use when evaluating chemicals.

LINK TO THIS ARTICLE

https://www.apeoplesepa.org/modules/safer-chemicals-healthy-families-the-first-3-things-biden-s-epa-must-do-to-protect-americans-from-toxic-chemicals

SOURCE

Safer Chemicals, Healthy Families

CITATION

Liz Hitchcock, “The First 3 Things Biden’s EPA Must Do to Protect Americans from Toxic Chemicals,” Safer Chemicals, Healthy Families (blog), February 1, 2021.

Moms Clean Air Force, “What President Biden Should Do about Climate Change and Air Pollution"

UPLOADED 14 April 2021

Moms Clean Air Force argued that the “Biden administration must leap into the future with a bold, ambitious plan to cut climate and air pollution.” MCAF was encouraged by the early actions of the Biden administration including rejoining the Paris Climate Accord and issuing executive orders related to the restoration of the role of the federal government in environmental protection. Going forward, MCAF wanted “bold and ambitious action” from the EPA. The top priorities include: 1) restoration of science as the foundation guiding the CAA; 2) fix Trump rollbacks that threaten air quality; 3) cut pollution from cars, trucks and buses; 4) cut pollution from power generators; 5) cut methane emissions from oil and gas development; 6) properly implement the Toxic Substances Control Act; 7) reconsider regulation of the Chlorpyrifos pesticide; 8) tighten and enforce regulations of refiners and cracker plants.

LINK TO THIS ARTICLE

https://www.apeoplesepa.org/modules/moms-clean-air-force-what-president-biden-should-do-about-climate-change-and-air-pollution

SOURCE

Moms Clean Air Force

CITATION

Moms Clean Air Force, “What President Biden Should Do about Climate Change and Air Pollution,” Accessed March 3, 2021.

Union of Concerned Scientists, “Presidential Recommendations for 2020"

UPLOADED 14 April 2021

The Union of Concerned Scientists argued that the next president after Trump needed to show leadership in restoring and strengthening the use of science in government. The UCS outlined four general areas of focus: 1) promoting science-based decision making; 2) strengthening scientific integrity; 3) enforcing transparency in decision making; 4) addressing conflicts of interest; 5) safeguarding government scientists; 6) fostering public participation in decision making; and 7) protecting democratic processes. Within these areas, the UCS identified dozens of specific policy recommendations, many of which targeted the EPA. These included ways to better include frontline communities in decision making; maintaining transparency in science at the EPA without obstructing or sidelining the use of good scientific data; and reducing the influence of industrial interests who undermine scientific decision making.

LINK TO THIS ARTICLE

https://www.apeoplesepa.org/modules/union-of-concerned-scientists-presidential-recommendations-for-2020

SOURCE

Union of Concerned Scientists

CITATION

Jacob Carter, Taryn MacKinney, Genna Reed, and Gretchen Goldman, “Presidential Recommendations for 2020,” Union of Concerned Scientists, January 29, 2020.

July 2021 Newsfeed

UPLOADED 14 June 2021

A People's EPA (APE)

July Newsfeed

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July 31, 2021

Enbridge's Pipeline 3 Threatens an Endangered Species - Contact The EPA (CleanTechnica, July 31, 2021)

Agency Wrong to Stop Regulating Rosemont Mine Site's Streams, Washes, EPA Says (Tucson.com, July 31, 2021).

July 30, 2021

Is Kyrsten Sinema Going to Think About Arizona's (Scary) Future When It Comes to These Infrastructure Bills? (Esquire, July 30, 2021).

James Reaches Agreement with EPA to Crack Down on Air Pollution (WWTI, July 30, 2021).

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July 29, 2021

EPA Requires Manufacturers to report PFAS Exposures and Hazards (National Law Review, July 29, 2021).

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July 28, 2021

Momentum Builds for Permanent End to Pebble Mine (NRDC, July 28, 2021).

Defense Department Is Not Protecting Service Members From Toxic "Forever Chemicals" (US News, July 28, 2021).

EPA Fines Oelwein Company for Hazardous Waste Violation (Radio Iowa, July 28, 2021).

Helena Says Ten Mile Creek Was Much More Contaminated than EPA Reported (Helena Independent Record, July 28, 2021).

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July 27, 2021

EPA: Elmira Heights Site That's Been on Superfund List Almost 40 Years Needs More Work (Star Gazette, July 27, 2021).

Biden Plan Would Tighten Mileage For New Cars Over the Next Four Years (Washington Post, July 27, 2021).

The EPA Will Revise a Trump-Era Rule on Toxic Wastewater From Coal Plants (The New York Times, July 27, 2021).

EPA Begins Hazardous Waste Cleanup in Rock Island (NPR wvik, July 27, 2021).

Nearly 140 Democrats Urge EPA to "Promptly" Allow California to Set Its Own Vehicle Standards (The Hill, July 27, 2021).

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July 26, 2021

EPA Fine Sours Yakima Cold-Storage Owner (Capital Press, July 26, 2021).

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July 24, 2021

Biden Administration's Environmental Justice Initiative Kicks Into Gear (Newsone, July 24, 2021).

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July 23, 2021

EPA Orders $65,250 Penalty For Pesticide Company (Associate Press, July 23, 2021).

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July 22, 2021

EPA Gives Jackson City Officials Timeline to Begin Addressing City's Water Issues (The Clarion-Ledger, July 22, 2021).

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July 21, 2021

The Western Drought Is Worse Than You Think. Here's Why (E&E News, July 21, 2021).

US: Groups Sue Environmental Protection Agency Over Approval of Toxic Herbicide (hortidaily.com, July 21, 2021).

Residents Express Outrage at Republic Over Lead, EPA Promises More Measures (The Canton Repository, July 21, 2021).

House Passes Bill Requiring EPA to Regulate "Forever Chemicals" in Drinking Water (The Hill, July 21, 2021).

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July 20, 2021

PFAS/RCRA: New Mexico Petitions U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to Initiate Hazardous Waste Listing (JDSUPRA, July 20, 2021).

Detection of Toxic PFAS Chemicals Increases to 2,790 Communities (EWG, July 20, 2021).

Biden Will Not Back Down on Climate Plans, EPA Chief Says (Financial Times, July 20, 2021).

The EPA Needs to Reject Louisiana's Regional Haze Plan Until It Complies With The Clean Air Act (CleanTechnica, July 20, 2021).

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July 19, 2021

Trump Administration's Clean Water Rule to Remain as Agencies Seek Its Revision (JD Supra, July 19, 2021).

EPA Orders Clarksburg to Provide Clean Water Amidst Lead Cases (West Virginia Daily News, July 19, 2021).

EPA Takes Up Environmental Justice Complaint Against Philly's Permit for SEPTA Power Plant in Nicetown (WHYY PBS, July 19, 2021)

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July 18, 2021

EPA to Squeeze on Aftermarket Car Part Sellers Hurts Classic Car Industry, Lankford Says (Yahoo News, July 18, 2021).

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July 17, 2021

Milwaukee and Madison Receive $200,000 Each from EPA for Environmental Justice Initiatives (Milwaukee Courier, July 17, 2021).

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July 15, 2021

Biden to Restore Protections for Tongass National Forest in Alaska (The New York Times, July 15, 2021).

New Data on "Forever Chemicals" Prompts Calls for More Transparency (The Hill, July 15, 2021).

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July 14, 2021

EPA Considers Placing Limits on "Forever Chemicals" in Drinking Water (The Guardian, July 14, 2021).

Senate Committee Approves EPA, Commerce Nominees (E&E News, July 14, 2021).

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July 13, 2021

EPA: Tenmile Creek Spill Poses No Environmental Impact (Helena Independent Record, July 13, 2021).

AP Interview: EPA Water Chief on Clean Water Protections (Associated Press, July 13, 2021).

White House Appoints New Director to Steer Key Climate Change Report (The Washington Post, July 13, 2021).

Biden Administration Taps EPA Scientist Allison Crimmins to Lead Key Climate Report (CNN, July 13, 2021).

Your Trash is Emitting Methane In The Landfill. Here's Why It Matters For The Climate (NPR, July 13, 2021).

EPA: 11,000 Facilities Illegally Discharged Pollutants Into Nearby Waters in 2018 (The Hill, July 13, 2021).

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July 12, 2021

EPA Seeks Public Comments on Legal Petition to Cancel Seresto Flea Collars Linked to Deaths of Nearly 1,700 Pets (Center for Biological Diversity, July 12, 2021).

Documents Show EPA Staff Concerns Over PFAS in Fracking (E&E News, July 12, 2021).

EPA to Expand Groundwater Investigation at Landfill Superfund Site in Lapeer County (mlive.com, July 12, 2021).

EPA Agrees to Reevaluate Trump-Era Washington State Water Quality Rollbacks (Earthjustice, July 12, 2021).

E.P.A. Approved Toxic Chemicals for Fracking a Decade Ago, New Files Show (The New York Times, July 12, 2021).

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July 9, 2021:

EPA Joins West Virginia DHHR in Assisting with Lead Water Lines in Clarksburg Water System (WVNews, July 9, 2021).

EPA Dumps Trump-Backed COVID-19 Disinfectant (E&E News, July 9, 2021).

SOCMA Asks EPA to Uphold Revisions Made in 2019 RMP Final Rule (Yahoo Finance, July 9, 2021).

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July 8, 2021:

EPA Opposes Permit for Pipeline Crossings (WDBJ.com, July 8, 2021).

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July 7, 2021:

"We Know That People Need Help" - EPA Administrator Visits Flint (ClickOn Detroit, July 7, 2021).

Use Radioactive Gypsum Waste for Road Construction? Never mind, EPA Says (nola.com, July 7, 2021).

War on Science Persists Within Biden EPA as Staffers Allege Chemical Reports Altered (Common Dreams, July 7, 2021).

-

July 6, 2021

EPA Chief Visits Milwaukee, Leaders Say Federal Funding Provides Opportunity to Replace Lead Lines (Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, July 6, 2021).

Federal Court Reverses EPA Rule on Year-Round E15 (NorthDakota.com, July 6, 2021).

EPA Faces Challenges Addressing SIPs (EHS Daily Advisor, July 6, 2021).

EPA Planning a Public Meeting on the Cleanup of Exide Superfund Site in Berks (Reading Eagle, July 6, 2021).

-

July 5, 2021

Focus Shifts to EPA on Methane Regulation After Biden Action (The Hill, July 5, 2021).

-

July 4, 2021

Former Obama EPA Official: Biden Infrastructure Plan "Strips Out" Black and Brown Communities (MSNBC, July 4, 2021).

-

July 3, 2021

Court Strikes Trump EPA Rule for Full-Year 15 Percent Ethanol Sales (The Independent, July 3, 2021).

-

July 2, 2021

EPA Withdraws Rule Allowing Use of Radioactive Material in Road Construction (The Hill, July 2, 2021).

-

July 1, 2021

House Democrats Unite to Send Firm Climate Signal to Biden (Politico, July 1, 2021).

Biden EPA to Reassess Trump-Era Chemical Health Findings (The Hill, July 1, 2021).

EPA Employees Fight for Contract That Will Protect Them Against Future Administrations (The Hill, July 1, 2021)

A People's EPA (APE)

July Newsfeed

-

July 31, 2021

Enbridge's Pipeline 3 Threatens an Endangered Species - Contact The EPA (CleanTechnica, July 31, 2021)

Agency Wrong to Stop Regulating Rosemont Mine Site's Streams, Washes, EPA Says (Tucson.com, July 31, 2021).

July 30, 2021

Is Kyrsten Sinema Going to Think About Arizona's (Scary) Future When It Comes to These Infrastructure Bills? (Esquire, July 30, 2021).

James Reaches Agreement with EPA to Crack Down on Air Pollution (WWTI, July 30, 2021).

-

July 29, 2021

EPA Requires Manufacturers to report PFAS Exposures and Hazards (National Law Review, July 29, 2021).

-

July 28, 2021

Momentum Builds for Permanent End to Pebble Mine (NRDC, July 28, 2021).

Defense Department Is Not Protecting Service Members From Toxic "Forever Chemicals" (US News, July 28, 2021).

EPA Fines Oelwein Company for Hazardous Waste Violation (Radio Iowa, July 28, 2021).

Helena Says Ten Mile Creek Was Much More Contaminated than EPA Reported (Helena Independent Record, July 28, 2021).

-

July 27, 2021

EPA: Elmira Heights Site That's Been on Superfund List Almost 40 Years Needs More Work (Star Gazette, July 27, 2021).

Biden Plan Would Tighten Mileage For New Cars Over the Next Four Years (Washington Post, July 27, 2021).

The EPA Will Revise a Trump-Era Rule on Toxic Wastewater From Coal Plants (The New York Times, July 27, 2021).

EPA Begins Hazardous Waste Cleanup in Rock Island (NPR wvik, July 27, 2021).

Nearly 140 Democrats Urge EPA to "Promptly" Allow California to Set Its Own Vehicle Standards (The Hill, July 27, 2021).

-

July 26, 2021

EPA Fine Sours Yakima Cold-Storage Owner (Capital Press, July 26, 2021).

-

July 24, 2021

Biden Administration's Environmental Justice Initiative Kicks Into Gear (Newsone, July 24, 2021).

-

July 23, 2021

EPA Orders $65,250 Penalty For Pesticide Company (Associate Press, July 23, 2021).

-

July 22, 2021

EPA Gives Jackson City Officials Timeline to Begin Addressing City's Water Issues (The Clarion-Ledger, July 22, 2021).

-

July 21, 2021

The Western Drought Is Worse Than You Think. Here's Why (E&E News, July 21, 2021).

US: Groups Sue Environmental Protection Agency Over Approval of Toxic Herbicide (hortidaily.com, July 21, 2021).

Residents Express Outrage at Republic Over Lead, EPA Promises More Measures (The Canton Repository, July 21, 2021).

House Passes Bill Requiring EPA to Regulate "Forever Chemicals" in Drinking Water (The Hill, July 21, 2021).

-

July 20, 2021

PFAS/RCRA: New Mexico Petitions U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to Initiate Hazardous Waste Listing (JDSUPRA, July 20, 2021).

Detection of Toxic PFAS Chemicals Increases to 2,790 Communities (EWG, July 20, 2021).

Biden Will Not Back Down on Climate Plans, EPA Chief Says (Financial Times, July 20, 2021).

The EPA Needs to Reject Louisiana's Regional Haze Plan Until It Complies With The Clean Air Act (CleanTechnica, July 20, 2021).

-

July 19, 2021

Trump Administration's Clean Water Rule to Remain as Agencies Seek Its Revision (JD Supra, July 19, 2021).

EPA Orders Clarksburg to Provide Clean Water Amidst Lead Cases (West Virginia Daily News, July 19, 2021).

EPA Takes Up Environmental Justice Complaint Against Philly's Permit for SEPTA Power Plant in Nicetown (WHYY PBS, July 19, 2021)

-

July 18, 2021

EPA to Squeeze on Aftermarket Car Part Sellers Hurts Classic Car Industry, Lankford Says (Yahoo News, July 18, 2021).

-

July 17, 2021

Milwaukee and Madison Receive $200,000 Each from EPA for Environmental Justice Initiatives (Milwaukee Courier, July 17, 2021).

-

July 15, 2021

Biden to Restore Protections for Tongass National Forest in Alaska (The New York Times, July 15, 2021).

New Data on "Forever Chemicals" Prompts Calls for More Transparency (The Hill, July 15, 2021).

-

July 14, 2021

EPA Considers Placing Limits on "Forever Chemicals" in Drinking Water (The Guardian, July 14, 2021).

Senate Committee Approves EPA, Commerce Nominees (E&E News, July 14, 2021).

-

July 13, 2021

EPA: Tenmile Creek Spill Poses No Environmental Impact (Helena Independent Record, July 13, 2021).

AP Interview: EPA Water Chief on Clean Water Protections (Associated Press, July 13, 2021).

White House Appoints New Director to Steer Key Climate Change Report (The Washington Post, July 13, 2021).

Biden Administration Taps EPA Scientist Allison Crimmins to Lead Key Climate Report (CNN, July 13, 2021).

Your Trash is Emitting Methane In The Landfill. Here's Why It Matters For The Climate (NPR, July 13, 2021).

EPA: 11,000 Facilities Illegally Discharged Pollutants Into Nearby Waters in 2018 (The Hill, July 13, 2021).

-

July 12, 2021

EPA Seeks Public Comments on Legal Petition to Cancel Seresto Flea Collars Linked to Deaths of Nearly 1,700 Pets (Center for Biological Diversity, July 12, 2021).

Documents Show EPA Staff Concerns Over PFAS in Fracking (E&E News, July 12, 2021).

EPA to Expand Groundwater Investigation at Landfill Superfund Site in Lapeer County (mlive.com, July 12, 2021).

EPA Agrees to Reevaluate Trump-Era Washington State Water Quality Rollbacks (Earthjustice, July 12, 2021).

E.P.A. Approved Toxic Chemicals for Fracking a Decade Ago, New Files Show (The New York Times, July 12, 2021).

-

July 9, 2021:

EPA Joins West Virginia DHHR in Assisting with Lead Water Lines in Clarksburg Water System (WVNews, July 9, 2021).

EPA Dumps Trump-Backed COVID-19 Disinfectant (E&E News, July 9, 2021).

SOCMA Asks EPA to Uphold Revisions Made in 2019 RMP Final Rule (Yahoo Finance, July 9, 2021).

-

July 8, 2021:

EPA Opposes Permit for Pipeline Crossings (WDBJ.com, July 8, 2021).

-

July 7, 2021:

"We Know That People Need Help" - EPA Administrator Visits Flint (ClickOn Detroit, July 7, 2021).

Use Radioactive Gypsum Waste for Road Construction? Never mind, EPA Says (nola.com, July 7, 2021).

War on Science Persists Within Biden EPA as Staffers Allege Chemical Reports Altered (Common Dreams, July 7, 2021).

-

July 6, 2021

EPA Chief Visits Milwaukee, Leaders Say Federal Funding Provides Opportunity to Replace Lead Lines (Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, July 6, 2021).

Federal Court Reverses EPA Rule on Year-Round E15 (NorthDakota.com, July 6, 2021).

EPA Faces Challenges Addressing SIPs (EHS Daily Advisor, July 6, 2021).

EPA Planning a Public Meeting on the Cleanup of Exide Superfund Site in Berks (Reading Eagle, July 6, 2021).

-

July 5, 2021

Focus Shifts to EPA on Methane Regulation After Biden Action (The Hill, July 5, 2021).

-

July 4, 2021

Former Obama EPA Official: Biden Infrastructure Plan "Strips Out" Black and Brown Communities (MSNBC, July 4, 2021).

-

July 3, 2021

Court Strikes Trump EPA Rule for Full-Year 15 Percent Ethanol Sales (The Independent, July 3, 2021).

-

July 2, 2021

EPA Withdraws Rule Allowing Use of Radioactive Material in Road Construction (The Hill, July 2, 2021).

-

July 1, 2021

House Democrats Unite to Send Firm Climate Signal to Biden (Politico, July 1, 2021).

Biden EPA to Reassess Trump-Era Chemical Health Findings (The Hill, July 1, 2021).

EPA Employees Fight for Contract That Will Protect Them Against Future Administrations (The Hill, July 1, 2021)

LINK TO THIS ARTICLE

https://www.apeoplesepa.org/modules/july-2021-newsfeed

Joel Mintz, “Biden Can Restore the EPA, but It Will Require Steadfast Effort"

UPLOADED 15 July 2021

In his article, Joel Mintz identifies that the work to restore the EPA must include the reinstitution of effective practices which were curtailed by the Trump administration, while simultaneously expanding the agency’s workforce and talent. Specifically, the EPA should 1) significantly increase its full-time equivalent workforce; 2) return to a model of scientifically-based policy to mitigate and adapt to the climate crisis; 3) assign a team of agency scientists to identify the most harmful Trump administration policies for priority action and reversal; 4) restore the prior EPA model of deterrent enforcement; 5) recruit new personnel, especially criminal investigators, lawyers, and engineers; and 6) augment punitive deterrence by publicizing enforcement work.

LINK TO THIS ARTICLE

https://www.apeoplesepa.org/modules/joel-mintz-biden-can-restore-the-epa-but-it-will-require-steadfast-effort

SOURCE

Biden can restore the EPA, but it will require steadfast effort.

CITATION

Joel Mintz, “Biden Can Restore the EPA, but It Will Require Steadfast Effort.” Salon, December 27, 2020.

Steve Cohen, “Rebuilding America’s Environmental Agencies and Environmental Consensus”

UPLOADED 15 July 2021

Cohen begins the article by reviewing that environmental policy emerged in the 1970s, around when the United States began to shift to a service economy. Although contemporary Americans are open to arguments that green policies kill jobs, most still desire healthy and safe communities. To restore the EPA after it was dismantled in the Trump era, President Biden must 1) restore competent nonpartisan management of the EPA, NOAA, and Department of the Interior; 2) draw mission-driven professionals to federal service; 3) replace weakened environmental regulations with more effective and tougher policies than those lost in the Trump era; 4) decarbonize the American energy system through an infrastructure program that offers tax incentives to industries; 5) re-start American leadership in climate diplomacy; 6) accommodate businesses who are making efforts in good faith to comply with environmental policy; 7) develop a hardline position against environmental poisons. Creativity is key in environmental policy, undertaken by both the government and corporations working in concert.

LINK TO THIS ARTICLE

https://www.apeoplesepa.org/modules/steve-cohen-rebuilding-america-s-environmental-agencies-and-environmental-consensus

SOURCE

Rebuilding America's Environmental Agencies and Environmental Consensus

CITATION

Steve Cohen, “Rebuilding America’s Environmental Agencies and Environmental Consensus.” State of the Planet, November 9, 2020.

Earthjustice “Until the Earth Thrives, We Will Never Rest”

UPLOADED 15 July 2021

This blog post by Earthjustice highlights the organization’s courtroom battles—and victories—over the last four years. The page offers links to several court cases: 1) the prevention of a corporate ploy to weaken the Clean Water Act in Hawai’i; 2) the protection of the Arctic against industrial exploitation, especially dirty energy such as oil and gas drilling; 3) the revocation of the Dakota Access Pipeline’s permits at Standing Rock and requirement of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to review the pipeline project’s environmental impact; 4) providing assistance to grassroots organizations to end and resist dirty energy companies from establishing oil or coal terminals in Washington state; 5) the protection of grizzly bears populations in Yellowstone from trophy hunting; 6) the prevention of the Pebble Mine project from being granted a permit in Bristol Bay, protecting its waters and wild salmon; 7) advancing the transition from fossil fuels to 100% clean energy; and 8) protecting endangered species and regional biodiversity by reducing fossil fuel development, deforestation, and industrial development.

LINK TO THIS ARTICLE

https://www.apeoplesepa.org/modules/earthjustice-until-the-earth-thrives-we-will-never-rest

SOURCE

Until the Earth Thrives, We Will Never Rest

CITATION

Earthjustice “Until the Earth Thrives, We Will Never Rest” Earthjustice, January 19, 2021.

Nature Editors, “How to Rebuild the US Environmental Protection Agency”

UPLOADED 15 July 2021

This Nature editorial reviews the long attack, exacerbated by the Trump administration, on the EPA under the guise of economic growth. The authors argue for a return to science, competent leadership, and the construction of an administrative structure that can and will exist in perpetuity. To do so, President Biden must 1) strengthen the agency’s existing structure to prevent any future administrations from strangling science-based evidence and policy; 2) rebuild the EPA’s in-house science team, filling and strengthening positions such as the assistant administrator for the EPA’s research division (the Office of Research and Development), a separate chief scientist for the agency, and the scientific-integrity official; 3) structure staffing to promote honesty and transparency over obedience; 4) appoint competent staff in the White House Office of Science and Technology to oversee scientific integrity across federal agencies; 4) insulate the agency by codifying scientific integrity in congressional policy through legislation; and 5) appoint a competent, visionary, and dedicated EPA administrator to lead the EPA according to a long-term mission of environmental protection.

LINK TO THIS ARTICLE

https://www.apeoplesepa.org/modules/nature-editors-how-to-rebuild-the-us-environmental-protection-agency

SOURCE

How to Rebuild the US Environmental Protection Agency.

CITATION

Nature Editors, “How to Rebuild the US Environmental Protection Agency,” Nature, December 16, 2020.

Stan Meiburg, “Restoring the EPA: Lessons from the Past"

UPLOADED 15 July 2021

In this article, Meiburg begins by reviewing the Trump administration’s unprecedented commitment to undermine the EPA. Not only did senior Trump officials, consumed by climate denial, use their understanding of the EPA’s regulatory structure to enact far-reaching changes to the agency, the challenges of climate change, environmental injustice, and chemical harm to the environment create a bureaucratic and environmental challenge for President Biden. Likewise, the Trump EPA worked to curtail state’s powers to legislate and enforce environmental policies through cutting operating grants, limiting the Clean Water Act, and opposing state climate initiatives. Rebuilding the EPA will require forward-looking businesses who recognize the threats of climate change, market systems that generate efficient environmental protection, and that the EPA re-embrace Ruckelshaus’s core values of science, law, and transparency to regenerate confidence in the agency both inside and out.

LINK TO THIS ARTICLE

https://www.apeoplesepa.org/modules/stan-meiburg-restoring-the-epa-lessons-from-the-past

SOURCE

Restoring the EPA: Lessons from the past.

CITATION

Stan Meiburg, “Restoring the EPA: Lessons from the Past,” The Hill, January 26, 2021.

Rebecca Hersher, “Hope and Skepticism as Biden Promises to Address Environmental Racism"

UPLOADED 15 July 2021

Hersher’s article begins by reviewing how, historically, the U.S. government has been either involved in, or a perpetrator, or environmental racism, with race the strongest predictor of proximity to toxic sites and inequitable environmental regulation. To address both historic and Trump era damages, Hersher quotes academics, advocates, and government officials to provide a series of suggestions on how to strengthen human and environmental protection. 1) The EPA must listen to, and build relationships of trust with vulnerable communities, especially those disproportionately suffering from the effects of pollution; 2) Clinton’s 1994 executive order addressing environmental racism must be expanded and updated; 3) funds must be provided to assist communities afflicted by both the COVID19 pandemic and chronic pollution; 4) legislation must be enacted to allow low-income communities and communities of color to sue the government regarding disproportionate pollution.

LINK TO THIS ARTICLE

https://www.apeoplesepa.org/modules/rebecca-hershey-hope-and-skepticism-as-biden-promises-to-address-environmental-racism

SOURCE

Hope and Skepticism as Biden Promises to Address Environmental Racism.

CITATION

Rebecca Hersher, “Hope and Skepticism as Biden Promises to Address Environmental Racism,” NPR, January 29, 2021.

August 2021 Newsfeed

UPLOADED 08 August 2021

A People's EPA (APE)

August Newsfeed

-

August 31, 2021

Interior Department Posts New Lease Sales a Week After Resumption Announcement (The Hill, August 31, 2021).

At a Fossil Fuels Summit, the Climate Crisis Is Totally Under Control (Jacobin, August 31, 2021).

To Save Lake Tahoe, They Spared No Expense. The Fire Came Over the Ridge Anyway (The New York Times, August 31, 2021)

EPA Expected to Act Soon on Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (Environmental Defense Fund, August 31, 2021).

EPA Eyes Risk More People Face From Two Plastic Softeners (Bloomberg Law, August 31, 2021).

Judge Scraps Red State Lawsuit Over Biden Carbon Metric (E&E News, August 31, 2021).

August 30, 2021

Federal Judge Strikes Down Trump Rule Governing Water Pollution (The New York Times, August 30, 2021).

U.S. Regulator Tells White House it will Step Up Enforcement of Oil and Gas Conglomerates (The Washington Post, August 30, 2021).

U.S. EPA approves emergency fuel waivers for Louisiana, Mississippi during Hurricane Ida (Reuters, August 30, 2021).

EPA Reissues Temperature TMDLs in the Columbia and Lower Snake Rivers (National Law Review, August 30, 2021).

August 27, 2021

California's 'Cantaloupe Center' Struggles to Reign Supreme As Drought Pummels Agriculture Across the West (The Washington Post, August 27, 2021).

Trump EPA Ignored Scientists Warnings On Miss. Project: Docs (E&E News, August 27, 2021)

EPA: Bee-Killing Pesticide Harms Most Endangered Species (E&E News, August 27, 2021).

EPA is Falsifying Risk Assessments for Dangerous Chemicals, Says Whistleblowers (The Guardian, August 27, 2021).

-

August 26, 2021

EPA Takes Over Raritan Bay Superfund Study from Company Responsible for Cleanup (nj.com, August 26, 2021)

-

August 25, 2021

EPA Receives 50 New Requests for WIFIA Financing Totaling Over $8 Billion Dollars (Water & Wastes Digest, August 25, 2021).

EPA Takes Action to Protect Pacific Salmon from Pesticides (EcoWatch, August 25, 2021).

County of Santa Clara Files Petition Urging EPA to Initiate Nationwide Ban on Leaded Aviation Gasoline (County of Santa Clara Newsroom, August 25, 2021).

Interior Keeps Slashing Royalty Rates for Coal Companies (E&E News, August 25, 2021)

Interior Announces First Oil Drilling Sales of the Biden Era (E&E News, August 25, 2021).

-

August 24, 2021

Biden Aims to Remove All Lead Pipes. Will EPA Follow Suit? (E&E News, August 24, 2021)

Scientists Say the World Urgently Needs to Cut Methane Emissions. The Politics Aren't As Simple (Politico, August 24, 2021).

Groups Ask EPA to Regulate Lead Pollution Around Nation's Airports (Earthjustice, August 24, 2021).

Calls for Ninth Circuit to Revoke EPA CWA Delegation of NPDES Authority to the State of Washington (National Law Review, August 24, 2021).

White House Warned EPA Its Auto Emissions Plan Was Too Weak (Bloomberg Law, August 24, 2021).

-

August 23, 2021

As the West Bakes Utah Forges Ahead With Water Pipeline (E&E News, August 23, 2021).

EPA: 1.6 Billion RINs Generated in July (Ethanol Producer Magazine, August 23, 2021).

Bay Area Gets $168 Million EPA Water Investment Loans (ENR, August 23, 2021).

Historic Visit from EPA Chief Puts Spotlight on Environmental Disaster in South Bay (KUSI, August 23, 2021).

-

August 22, 2021

EPA Expected to Send Biofuel Quota Draft to White House (Oilprice.com, August 22, 2021).

-

August 20, 2021

Fracking linked to surface water quality for the first time (The Hill, August 20, 2021).

The EPA just ordered this Illinois city to fix its sewage problem again (Grist, August 20, 2021).

EPA Announces Electronic Process for Submitting Foreign Purchaser Acknowledgement Statements (JDSupra, August 20, 2021).

-

August 19, 2021

NPS Pick Has Never Managed a Park, But That May Not Matter (E&E News, August 19, 2021).

As Biden Urges Global Warming Action, Courts Shape Climate Policy at Home (Washington Post, August 19, 2021).

More fires, weather events cause strain on fire and smoke computers (KCRA2, August 19, 2021).

Formaldehyde causes leukemia, according to EPA assessment suppressed by Trump officials (The Intercept, August 19, 2021).

-

August 18, 2021

Court Blocks a Vast Alaskan Drilling Project, Citing Climate Dangers (The New York Times, August 18, 2021).

EPA to Block Pesticide Tied to Neurological Harm in Children (The New York Times, August 18, 2021).

-

August 17, 2021

Three Things Are Clear About Biden's Latest Move on Oil Leasing (E&E News, August 17, 2021).

House Environment and Commerce Leaders Request Information About New Chemical Review Progress from EPA (National Law Review, August 17, 2021).

The EPA and the City of Wapato settle over wastewater treatment discharge violations (Environmental Protection Online, August 17, 2021).

-

August 16, 2021

EPA Wants Property Owners of Erie Coke Corporation to Pay for Property Clean Up (YourErie.com, August 16, 2021).

Booker Aide Zach McCue is Contender for Top EPA Job (New Jersey Globe, August 16, 2021).

In A First, U.S. Declares Shortage On Colorado River, Forcing Water Cuts (The New York Times, August 16, 2021).

Course Rejects CWA Challenge, Tees Up Supreme Court Showdown (E&E News, August 16, 2021).

Biden Wants a National Efficiency Standard, Would it Work? (E&E News, August 16, 2021).

-

August 13, 2021

EPA New Mexico announces new air quality initiative (Sante Fe New Mexican, August 13, 2021).

-

August 12, 2021

Chemical supplier loses certification after nearly contaminating Michigan community water (Michigan Live, August 12, 2021).

After Review, EPA Keeps Three Coal Combustion Residue Rules in Place (National Law Review, August 12, 2021).

EPA Levies Penalties for Lead-Related Violations in L.A. Schools (Random Lengths News, August 12, 2021).

State-Level Permitting Primary May Boost Carbon Capture and Storage (JDSupra, August 12, 2021).

-

August 11, 2021

Environment Group Sue EPA for Failing to Address Sulfur Dioxide in Air In Maryland and Michigan (Baltimore Fishbowl, August 11, 2021).

EPA Adds 36 New Chemicals to the Safer Chemical Ingredients List (National Law Review, August 11, 2021).

-

August 10, 2021

EPA Asked to Stop Barring Employees From Sharing Scientific Finding With Each Other (Government Executive, August 10, 2021).

Will The Supreme Court Take On EPA'S Climate Rule (E&E News, August 10, 2021).

EPA Ordered to Update Rules on Oil Spill-Fighting Chemicals (Associated Press, August 10, 2021).

EPA Funds Research to Better Understand Exposure of Young Children to Chemicals in Soil and Dust (Lexology, August 10, 2021).

Pesticide Companies Should Pay Attention to Federal PFAS Activities (National Law Review, August 10, 2021).

-

August 9, 2021

Biden Rushes to Pick Judges, But One Major Opening Remains (E&E News, August 9, 2021).

Biden Administration Begins Process of Revising Waters of U.S. Rule (JDSupra, August 9, 2021).

Clean Up Settlement Reached on Hazardous Waste Site Near Arkansas River in Fort Smith (TB&P, August 9, 2021).

-

August 6, 2021

US EPA Shoots to push vehicle fuel efficiency to 52 mpg by 2026 (Reuters, August 6, 2021).

In Three Predominantly Black North Birmingham Neighborhoods, Residents Live Inside An Environmental Nightmare (Inside Climate News, August 6, 2021).

EPA Plans to Start Cleaning Up Soil With Lead and Arsenic in Garland Neighborhood by End of August (The Dallas Morning News, August 6, 2021).

-

August 5, 2021

Biden, in a Push to Phase Out Gas Cars, Will Tighten Pollution Rules (The New York Times, August 5, 2021).

-

August 4, 2021

White House Reviewing Revamp to Trump’s Power Plant Rule (E&E News, August 4, 2021).

Leaked Audio Shows Pressure to Overrule Scientists in “Hair-On-Fire” Cases (The Intercept, August 4, 2021).

Cypress Creek Watershed Protection Plan Accepted by EPA (Houston Chronicle, August 4, 2021).

EPA Unveils Its Power Plants And Neighboring Communities Mapping Tool (JDSupra, August 4, 2021).

-

August 3, 2021

Biden Administration Kicks Off Second Look at Arctic Refuge Drilling (The Hill, August 3, 2021).

EPA Orders Cahokia Heights to Take “Immediate Actions” to Prevent Drinking Water Contamination (STLtoday.com, August 3, 2021).

EPA Backtracks on Aerial Pesticide Ban (E&E News, August 3, 2021).

In Reversal, EPA Won’t Allow Radioactive Fertilizer Byproducts in Roads (Tampa Bay Times, August 3, 2021).

Senate Votes Down NEPA Amendment to Bipartisan Bill (E&E News, August 3, 2021).

-

August 2, 2021

Biden’s Climate Plans Are Stunted After Dejected Experts Fled Trump (The New York Times, August 2, 2021).

EPA Announces New Members of Science Board After Firing Trump Appointees (The Hill, August 2, 2021).

A People's EPA (APE)

August Newsfeed

-

August 31, 2021

Interior Department Posts New Lease Sales a Week After Resumption Announcement (The Hill, August 31, 2021).

At a Fossil Fuels Summit, the Climate Crisis Is Totally Under Control (Jacobin, August 31, 2021).

To Save Lake Tahoe, They Spared No Expense. The Fire Came Over the Ridge Anyway (The New York Times, August 31, 2021)

EPA Expected to Act Soon on Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (Environmental Defense Fund, August 31, 2021).

EPA Eyes Risk More People Face From Two Plastic Softeners (Bloomberg Law, August 31, 2021).

Judge Scraps Red State Lawsuit Over Biden Carbon Metric (E&E News, August 31, 2021).

August 30, 2021

Federal Judge Strikes Down Trump Rule Governing Water Pollution (The New York Times, August 30, 2021).

U.S. Regulator Tells White House it will Step Up Enforcement of Oil and Gas Conglomerates (The Washington Post, August 30, 2021).

U.S. EPA approves emergency fuel waivers for Louisiana, Mississippi during Hurricane Ida (Reuters, August 30, 2021).

EPA Reissues Temperature TMDLs in the Columbia and Lower Snake Rivers (National Law Review, August 30, 2021).

August 27, 2021

California's 'Cantaloupe Center' Struggles to Reign Supreme As Drought Pummels Agriculture Across the West (The Washington Post, August 27, 2021).

Trump EPA Ignored Scientists Warnings On Miss. Project: Docs (E&E News, August 27, 2021)

EPA: Bee-Killing Pesticide Harms Most Endangered Species (E&E News, August 27, 2021).

EPA is Falsifying Risk Assessments for Dangerous Chemicals, Says Whistleblowers (The Guardian, August 27, 2021).

-

August 26, 2021

EPA Takes Over Raritan Bay Superfund Study from Company Responsible for Cleanup (nj.com, August 26, 2021)

-

August 25, 2021

EPA Receives 50 New Requests for WIFIA Financing Totaling Over $8 Billion Dollars (Water & Wastes Digest, August 25, 2021).

EPA Takes Action to Protect Pacific Salmon from Pesticides (EcoWatch, August 25, 2021).

County of Santa Clara Files Petition Urging EPA to Initiate Nationwide Ban on Leaded Aviation Gasoline (County of Santa Clara Newsroom, August 25, 2021).

Interior Keeps Slashing Royalty Rates for Coal Companies (E&E News, August 25, 2021)

Interior Announces First Oil Drilling Sales of the Biden Era (E&E News, August 25, 2021).

-

August 24, 2021

Biden Aims to Remove All Lead Pipes. Will EPA Follow Suit? (E&E News, August 24, 2021)

Scientists Say the World Urgently Needs to Cut Methane Emissions. The Politics Aren't As Simple (Politico, August 24, 2021).

Groups Ask EPA to Regulate Lead Pollution Around Nation's Airports (Earthjustice, August 24, 2021).

Calls for Ninth Circuit to Revoke EPA CWA Delegation of NPDES Authority to the State of Washington (National Law Review, August 24, 2021).

White House Warned EPA Its Auto Emissions Plan Was Too Weak (Bloomberg Law, August 24, 2021).

-

August 23, 2021

As the West Bakes Utah Forges Ahead With Water Pipeline (E&E News, August 23, 2021).

EPA: 1.6 Billion RINs Generated in July (Ethanol Producer Magazine, August 23, 2021).

Bay Area Gets $168 Million EPA Water Investment Loans (ENR, August 23, 2021).

Historic Visit from EPA Chief Puts Spotlight on Environmental Disaster in South Bay (KUSI, August 23, 2021).

-

August 22, 2021

EPA Expected to Send Biofuel Quota Draft to White House (Oilprice.com, August 22, 2021).

-

August 20, 2021

Fracking linked to surface water quality for the first time (The Hill, August 20, 2021).

The EPA just ordered this Illinois city to fix its sewage problem again (Grist, August 20, 2021).

EPA Announces Electronic Process for Submitting Foreign Purchaser Acknowledgement Statements (JDSupra, August 20, 2021).

-

August 19, 2021

NPS Pick Has Never Managed a Park, But That May Not Matter (E&E News, August 19, 2021).

As Biden Urges Global Warming Action, Courts Shape Climate Policy at Home (Washington Post, August 19, 2021).

More fires, weather events cause strain on fire and smoke computers (KCRA2, August 19, 2021).

Formaldehyde causes leukemia, according to EPA assessment suppressed by Trump officials (The Intercept, August 19, 2021).

-

August 18, 2021

Court Blocks a Vast Alaskan Drilling Project, Citing Climate Dangers (The New York Times, August 18, 2021).

EPA to Block Pesticide Tied to Neurological Harm in Children (The New York Times, August 18, 2021).

-

August 17, 2021

Three Things Are Clear About Biden's Latest Move on Oil Leasing (E&E News, August 17, 2021).

House Environment and Commerce Leaders Request Information About New Chemical Review Progress from EPA (National Law Review, August 17, 2021).

The EPA and the City of Wapato settle over wastewater treatment discharge violations (Environmental Protection Online, August 17, 2021).

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August 16, 2021

EPA Wants Property Owners of Erie Coke Corporation to Pay for Property Clean Up (YourErie.com, August 16, 2021).

Booker Aide Zach McCue is Contender for Top EPA Job (New Jersey Globe, August 16, 2021).

In A First, U.S. Declares Shortage On Colorado River, Forcing Water Cuts (The New York Times, August 16, 2021).

Course Rejects CWA Challenge, Tees Up Supreme Court Showdown (E&E News, August 16, 2021).

Biden Wants a National Efficiency Standard, Would it Work? (E&E News, August 16, 2021).

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August 13, 2021

EPA New Mexico announces new air quality initiative (Sante Fe New Mexican, August 13, 2021).

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August 12, 2021

Chemical supplier loses certification after nearly contaminating Michigan community water (Michigan Live, August 12, 2021).

After Review, EPA Keeps Three Coal Combustion Residue Rules in Place (National Law Review, August 12, 2021).

EPA Levies Penalties for Lead-Related Violations in L.A. Schools (Random Lengths News, August 12, 2021).

State-Level Permitting Primary May Boost Carbon Capture and Storage (JDSupra, August 12, 2021).

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August 11, 2021

Environment Group Sue EPA for Failing to Address Sulfur Dioxide in Air In Maryland and Michigan (Baltimore Fishbowl, August 11, 2021).

EPA Adds 36 New Chemicals to the Safer Chemical Ingredients List (National Law Review, August 11, 2021).

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August 10, 2021

EPA Asked to Stop Barring Employees From Sharing Scientific Finding With Each Other (Government Executive, August 10, 2021).

Will The Supreme Court Take On EPA'S Climate Rule (E&E News, August 10, 2021).

EPA Ordered to Update Rules on Oil Spill-Fighting Chemicals (Associated Press, August 10, 2021).

EPA Funds Research to Better Understand Exposure of Young Children to Chemicals in Soil and Dust (Lexology, August 10, 2021).

Pesticide Companies Should Pay Attention to Federal PFAS Activities (National Law Review, August 10, 2021).

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August 9, 2021

Biden Rushes to Pick Judges, But One Major Opening Remains (E&E News, August 9, 2021).

Biden Administration Begins Process of Revising Waters of U.S. Rule (JDSupra, August 9, 2021).

Clean Up Settlement Reached on Hazardous Waste Site Near Arkansas River in Fort Smith (TB&P, August 9, 2021).

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August 6, 2021

US EPA Shoots to push vehicle fuel efficiency to 52 mpg by 2026 (Reuters, August 6, 2021).

In Three Predominantly Black North Birmingham Neighborhoods, Residents Live Inside An Environmental Nightmare (Inside Climate News, August 6, 2021).

EPA Plans to Start Cleaning Up Soil With Lead and Arsenic in Garland Neighborhood by End of August (The Dallas Morning News, August 6, 2021).

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August 5, 2021

Biden, in a Push to Phase Out Gas Cars, Will Tighten Pollution Rules (The New York Times, August 5, 2021).

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August 4, 2021

White House Reviewing Revamp to Trump’s Power Plant Rule (E&E News, August 4, 2021).

Leaked Audio Shows Pressure to Overrule Scientists in “Hair-On-Fire” Cases (The Intercept, August 4, 2021).

Cypress Creek Watershed Protection Plan Accepted by EPA (Houston Chronicle, August 4, 2021).

EPA Unveils Its Power Plants And Neighboring Communities Mapping Tool (JDSupra, August 4, 2021).

-

August 3, 2021

Biden Administration Kicks Off Second Look at Arctic Refuge Drilling (The Hill, August 3, 2021).

EPA Orders Cahokia Heights to Take “Immediate Actions” to Prevent Drinking Water Contamination (STLtoday.com, August 3, 2021).

EPA Backtracks on Aerial Pesticide Ban (E&E News, August 3, 2021).

In Reversal, EPA Won’t Allow Radioactive Fertilizer Byproducts in Roads (Tampa Bay Times, August 3, 2021).

Senate Votes Down NEPA Amendment to Bipartisan Bill (E&E News, August 3, 2021).

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August 2, 2021

Biden’s Climate Plans Are Stunted After Dejected Experts Fled Trump (The New York Times, August 2, 2021).

EPA Announces New Members of Science Board After Firing Trump Appointees (The Hill, August 2, 2021).

LINK TO THIS ARTICLE

https://www.apeoplesepa.org/modules/august-2021-newsfeed

John Rumpler, “Report maps hundreds of toxic waste sites in the path of 2020’s record- shattering Atlantic hurricane season"

UPLOADED 16 August 2021

“A Perfect Storm: When Tropical Storms Meet Toxic Waste,” released by the U.S. PIRG Education Fund and the Environment America Research & Policy Center, reports that, so far, only “dumb luck” has prevented Superfund toxic waste sites in the path of hurricanes from causing an environmental and public health catastrophe. Rumpler, echoing the report, calls for the EPA to reinstate the “Polluter Pays” tax to expand, improve, and expedite cleanup of these toxic sites. The report itself also recommends that: the effects of climate change should be considered when prioritizing cleanup; state and local governments should work more closely with the EPA; and individuals should find out if they live near a Superfund site to protect themselves.

LINK TO THIS ARTICLE

https://www.apeoplesepa.org/modules/john-rumpler-report-maps-hundreds-of-toxic-waste-sites-in-the-path-of-2020-s-record-shattering-atlantic-hurricane-season

SOURCE

Report Maps Hundreds of Toxic Waste Sites in the Path of 2020’s Record-Shattering Atlantic Hurricane Season

CITATION

John Rumpler, “Report maps hundreds of toxic waste sites in the path of 2020’s record-shattering Atlantic hurricane season: Hurricanes and tropical storms crossed over 800 toxic “Superfund” waste sites last year.” Environment America, May 13, 2021.

Miranda Green, “Can Biden’s Justice40 Plan Deliver a Fairer Environment for People of Color?”

UPLOADED 10 August 2021

Biden’s Justice40 Plan promises to direct forty percent of federal environmental investments to people in need, potentially directing millions of dollars to disadvantaged communities if executed properly. The Plan itself comes from the White House Environmental Justice Advisory Committee, which recommended investment in national energy efficiency, sustainable and affordable housing, training the national workforce to transition to green energy, and pollution reduction. However, the project can still fail if individual states mismanage the funds directed to them, or if slush-fund projects are prioritized over an active investment in communities in need. Though Green, a journalist, does no offer specific advice, she does note the potential pitfalls of the plan the Biden administration should be wary of: 1) Republican-led states may thwart federal plans for political reasons; 2) the current plan for Justice40 potentially pits communities in need against each other in the screening process for aid; 3) frontline advocates were not consulted in the planning process of Justice40; 4) the ‘forty percent’ part of the plan should serve as a baseline, not a limit for climate justice; and 5) funding may be limited due to a contentious congressional environment.

LINK TO THIS ARTICLE

https://www.apeoplesepa.org/modules/miranda-green-can-biden-s-justice40-plan-deliver-a-fairer-environment-for-people-of-color

SOURCE

Can Biden’s Justice40 Plan Deliver a Fairer Environment for People of Color?

CITATION

Miranda Green, “Can Biden’s Justice40 Plan Deliver a Fairer Environment for People of Color?” The Guardian, June 2, 2021.

Terry Yosie, “Rebuilding the EPA"

UPLOADED 10 August 2021

Terry Yosie, the former head of the EPA’s Science Advisory Board, begins this article with a warning: years of bipartisan neglect, anti-science and anti-regulation decisions have weakened public institutions leaving many lives susceptible to pollution and disease. After a historic reduction of the EPA’s resources in the Trump era, five investments must be made in the EPA to protect both the environment and public health. First, The EPA must be repopulated with talented staff to assess threats, perform cost-benefit analysis on regulatory actions, and achieve compliance with regulated entities. Second, public health must be directly linked to the detrimental and compounding effects of global climate change and domestic pollution at home. Third, cutting edge technology must be proactively implemented to track pollutants throughout America to prevent another health crisis such as the one in Flint, Michigan. Fourth, environmental action must meet the digital age by incorporating big data or analytical software. Finally, social justice must be integral to environmental protection, as communities of color and lower income neighborhoods still receive disproportionately lower governmental aid yet experience disproportionately greater exposure to industrial pollutants.

LINK TO THIS ARTICLE

https://www.apeoplesepa.org/modules/terry-yosie-rebuilding-the-epa

SOURCE

Rebuilding the EPA

CITATION

Terry Yosie, “Rebuilding the EPA.” The Hill, September 14, 2020.

Cheryl Wasserman, “Biden Should Go Big on Infrastructure in the First 100 Days"

UPLOADED 16 August 2021

Cheryl Wasserman, a former EPA employee and current president of the Environmental Governance Institute International, calls on the Biden administration to repeal Trump-era restrictions on the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA); invest in America’s infrastructure with green energy technology; and reinstate higher taxes on the wealthy for future Americans. The United State’s lack of investment in infrastructure has negatively affected the economy and public health, according to Wasserman. Lead-contaminated water systems are detrimental to brain development, for example, and dated wastewater treatment systems inflict gastrointestinal problems and pollute aquatic ecosystems. It is critical that NEPA’s original purpose—the requirement that federal agencies seek better alternatives to their missions, cooperate with each other along with tribal, local, and state governments, and conserve and optimize our limited natural resources—be reinstated to guide large investments in infrastructure.

LINK TO THIS ARTICLE

https://www.apeoplesepa.org/modules/cheryl-wasserman-biden-should-go-big-on-infrastructure-in-the-first-100-days

SOURCE

Biden Should Go Big on Infrastructure in the First 100 Days

CITATION

Cheryl Wasserman, “Biden Should Go Big on Infrastructure in the First 100 Days.” The Hill, January 19, 2021.

Wendy Wagner and Will Walker, “Our Chemical Regulatory Program Is Broken. Here’s How to Fix It"

UPLOADED 16 August 2021

Wagner and Walker propose that the federal government institute proactive regulation of potentially toxic chemicals and shift the responsibility of national chemical safety to chemical manufacturers and from the underfunded EPA and victims who file tort claims for damages. According to the authors, at this time, unanalyzed and ‘forever’ chemicals are freely pumped into the environment, with manufacturers having no responsibility to evaluate the effects of their products. Currently, manufacturers have the power to inhibit current EPA regulation by classifying their chemicals as “trade secrets'' to conceal chemical name and design, sue the EPA when criticized, manipulate internal studies in the absence of conflict-of-interest standards, hire compliant scientists to critique independent studies, and substitute known toxins with unknown—potentially more toxic—chemicals without testing. To amend this, the authors assert that manufacturers must be required to test their chemicals according to an established, mandatory set of guidelines before a product hits the market. Likewise, independent third-party analysts must be employed to assure that these tests are credible.

LINK TO THIS ARTICLE

https://www.apeoplesepa.org/modules/wendy-wagner-and-will-walker-our-chemical-regulatory-program-is-broken-here-s-how-to-fix-it

SOURCE

Our Chemical Regulatory Program Is Broken. Here's How to Fix It.

CITATION

Wendy Wagner and Will Walker, “Our Chemical Regulatory Program Is Broken. Here’s How to Fix It.” Undark, April 30, 2020.

September 2021 Newsfeed

UPLOADED 30 April 2021

A People's EPA (APE)

September Newsfeed

-

September 17, 2021

EPA Rescinds Trump Guidance That Created Exceptions to Water Pollution Protections (The Hill, September 17, 2021).

Bureau of Land Management Headquarters to Return to D.C., Reversing Trump Decision (The Washington Post, September 17, 2021).

EPA Science Board “Reset” Renews Tensions Over Bias (E&E News, September 17, 2021).

September 16, 2021

EPA Removes 3 Bloomington Waste Sites from Superfund List. Why That Matters (Bloomington Herald Times, September 16, 2021).

Former EPA Chief to Chair Pro-Trump Think Tank’s Environmental Center (The Hill, September 17, 2021).

Allegations of Racism, Abuse Cloud EPA Whistleblower Hearing (E&E News, September 16, 2021).

EPA Recommends Further Study Before Genesee Township Asphalt Plant Gets Permit (mlive.com, September 16, 2021).

September 15, 2021

EPA Fines Oregon’s Largest Glass Container Recycler Nearly $39,000 (OregonLive.com, September 16, 2021).

Biden Calls for Climate Action Ahead of Historic Legislation (E&E News, September 15, 2021).

September 14, 2021

Carlton Waterhouse is Fighting For Environmental Justice At The EPA - And Getting Called A “Racist” (E&E News, September 14, 2021).

September 13, 2021

Biden’s EPA Finds a New Weapon in the War Against Alaska’s Pebble Mine (Post Alley The View from Seattle, September 13, 2021).

September 12, 2021

“The Harm to Children is Irreparable”: Ruth Etzel Speaks Out Ahead of EPA Whistleblower Hearing (The Guardian, September 12, 2021).

September 11, 2021

Denver Ozone in Violation of EPA Health Standards (9News, September 17, 2021).

Trump May Be Gone, But the Fight Against His Border Wall Goes On (The New York Times, September 11, 2021)

September 10, 2021

Groups Seek Federal Help with Lead in Michigan City's Water (AP News, September 10, 2021).

September 9, 2021

Democrats Want a "Climate Corps." They Just Can't Agree How to Create It (The New York Times, September 8, 2021)

CU Boulder Researchers Receive $1.1M EPA Grant to Study Wildfire Smoke (Boulder Daily Camera, September 9, 2021).

EPA Considers More Permanent Protection For Bristol Bay by Resuming Pebble "Veto" Process (Alaska Public Media, September 9, 2021).

EPA Recommends Superfund Status for Lower Neponset River (WBUR News, September 9, 2021).

EPA Wastewater Rules to Set First PFAS Limits (E&E News, September 9, 2021).

Biden Administration Moves to Protect Alaska's Bristol Bay (The New York Times, September 9, 2021).

EPA to Protect Alaska's Bristol Bay, Blocking Major Gold Mine (The Washington Post, September 9, 2021).

September 8, 2021

Lead Contamination Lands Atlanta Neighborhood on EPA's Superfund Priority List (Atlanta Journal-Constitution, September 8, 2021).

Interior Will Launch Review of Trump's Arctic Oil Plan (E&E News, September 8, 2021).

From 4% to 45%: Biden Releases an Ambitious Plan for Solar Energy (E&E News, September 8, 2021).

Methane Rule to Eclipse Past Regulations, Including Obama's (E&E News, September 8, 2021).

California Recall Vote Could Weaken the State's Aggressive Climate Policies (The New York Times, September 8, 2021).

September 7, 2021

Booming Utah's Weak Link: Surging Air Pollution (The New York Times, September 7, 2021)

More National Parks? Summer of Overcrowding Could Spur Push (E&E News, September 7, 2021).

September 5, 2021

Advocates Push White House to Nominate Energy Regulator (The Hill, September 5, 2021).

September 3, 2021

EPA sends surveillance aircraft to possible oil spill reported in wake of Ida (Reuters, September 3, 2021).

Flat rock odor still unknown as officials expand area of concern perimeter (FOX Detroit, September 3, 2021).

September 2, 2021

U.S. Reconciliation Energy Bill Slowed by Flurry of Republican Amendments (Reuters, September 2, 2021).

EPA Just Detailed All The Ways Climate Change Will Hit U.S. Racial Minorities the Hardest. It’s a Long List (The Washington Post, September 2, 2021).

Climate Change is Bankrupting America’s Small Towns (The New York Times, September 2, 2021).

District Court Vacates the 2020 Navigable Waters Protection Rule as the EPA and Corps WOTUS Definition Rulemaking Continues (National Law Review, September 2, 2021).

People of color face disproportionate harm from climate change, EPA says (USA News, September 2, 2021).

September 1, 2021

Provincetown Town Manager Named to EPA Advisory Committee (Cape Cod Times, September 1, 2021).

U.S. EPA Asks Court to Allow it to Reconsider Some Biofuel Blending Waivers (Reuters, September 1, 2021).

A People's EPA (APE)

September Newsfeed

-

September 17, 2021

EPA Rescinds Trump Guidance That Created Exceptions to Water Pollution Protections (The Hill, September 17, 2021).

Bureau of Land Management Headquarters to Return to D.C., Reversing Trump Decision (The Washington Post, September 17, 2021).

EPA Science Board “Reset” Renews Tensions Over Bias (E&E News, September 17, 2021).

September 16, 2021

EPA Removes 3 Bloomington Waste Sites from Superfund List. Why That Matters (Bloomington Herald Times, September 16, 2021).

Former EPA Chief to Chair Pro-Trump Think Tank’s Environmental Center (The Hill, September 17, 2021).

Allegations of Racism, Abuse Cloud EPA Whistleblower Hearing (E&E News, September 16, 2021).

EPA Recommends Further Study Before Genesee Township Asphalt Plant Gets Permit (mlive.com, September 16, 2021).

September 15, 2021

EPA Fines Oregon’s Largest Glass Container Recycler Nearly $39,000 (OregonLive.com, September 16, 2021).

Biden Calls for Climate Action Ahead of Historic Legislation (E&E News, September 15, 2021).

September 14, 2021

Carlton Waterhouse is Fighting For Environmental Justice At The EPA - And Getting Called A “Racist” (E&E News, September 14, 2021).

September 13, 2021

Biden’s EPA Finds a New Weapon in the War Against Alaska’s Pebble Mine (Post Alley The View from Seattle, September 13, 2021).

September 12, 2021

“The Harm to Children is Irreparable”: Ruth Etzel Speaks Out Ahead of EPA Whistleblower Hearing (The Guardian, September 12, 2021).

September 11, 2021

Denver Ozone in Violation of EPA Health Standards (9News, September 17, 2021).

Trump May Be Gone, But the Fight Against His Border Wall Goes On (The New York Times, September 11, 2021)

September 10, 2021

Groups Seek Federal Help with Lead in Michigan City's Water (AP News, September 10, 2021).

September 9, 2021

Democrats Want a "Climate Corps." They Just Can't Agree How to Create It (The New York Times, September 8, 2021)

CU Boulder Researchers Receive $1.1M EPA Grant to Study Wildfire Smoke (Boulder Daily Camera, September 9, 2021).

EPA Considers More Permanent Protection For Bristol Bay by Resuming Pebble "Veto" Process (Alaska Public Media, September 9, 2021).

EPA Recommends Superfund Status for Lower Neponset River (WBUR News, September 9, 2021).

EPA Wastewater Rules to Set First PFAS Limits (E&E News, September 9, 2021).

Biden Administration Moves to Protect Alaska's Bristol Bay (The New York Times, September 9, 2021).

EPA to Protect Alaska's Bristol Bay, Blocking Major Gold Mine (The Washington Post, September 9, 2021).

September 8, 2021

Lead Contamination Lands Atlanta Neighborhood on EPA's Superfund Priority List (Atlanta Journal-Constitution, September 8, 2021).

Interior Will Launch Review of Trump's Arctic Oil Plan (E&E News, September 8, 2021).

From 4% to 45%: Biden Releases an Ambitious Plan for Solar Energy (E&E News, September 8, 2021).

Methane Rule to Eclipse Past Regulations, Including Obama's (E&E News, September 8, 2021).

California Recall Vote Could Weaken the State's Aggressive Climate Policies (The New York Times, September 8, 2021).

September 7, 2021

Booming Utah's Weak Link: Surging Air Pollution (The New York Times, September 7, 2021)

More National Parks? Summer of Overcrowding Could Spur Push (E&E News, September 7, 2021).

September 5, 2021

Advocates Push White House to Nominate Energy Regulator (The Hill, September 5, 2021).

September 3, 2021

EPA sends surveillance aircraft to possible oil spill reported in wake of Ida (Reuters, September 3, 2021).

Flat rock odor still unknown as officials expand area of concern perimeter (FOX Detroit, September 3, 2021).

September 2, 2021

U.S. Reconciliation Energy Bill Slowed by Flurry of Republican Amendments (Reuters, September 2, 2021).

EPA Just Detailed All The Ways Climate Change Will Hit U.S. Racial Minorities the Hardest. It’s a Long List (The Washington Post, September 2, 2021).

Climate Change is Bankrupting America’s Small Towns (The New York Times, September 2, 2021).

District Court Vacates the 2020 Navigable Waters Protection Rule as the EPA and Corps WOTUS Definition Rulemaking Continues (National Law Review, September 2, 2021).

People of color face disproportionate harm from climate change, EPA says (USA News, September 2, 2021).

September 1, 2021

Provincetown Town Manager Named to EPA Advisory Committee (Cape Cod Times, September 1, 2021).

U.S. EPA Asks Court to Allow it to Reconsider Some Biofuel Blending Waivers (Reuters, September 1, 2021).

LINK TO THIS ARTICLE

https://www.apeoplesepa.org/modules/september-2021-newsfeed

Democratizing Data: Environmental Enforcement Watch’s Report Cards for Congressional Oversight of the EPA

UPLOADED 06 July 2021

This report used tools developed by EDGI’s Environmental Enforcement Watch to analyze trends in compliance and enforcement in select congressional districts and states. The analysis found increases in violations under the Trump administration in many of the areas studied, as well as long-term problems with non-compliance. The report also found serious problems with the reporting, collection, maintenance, and access to enforcement and compliance data.

LINK TO THIS ARTICLE

https://www.apeoplesepa.org/modules/democratizing-data

SOURCE

Environmental Data & Governance Initiative

CITATION

EDGI, "Democratizing Data: Environmental Enforcement Watch's Report Cards for Congressional Oversight of the EPA," October 22, 2020

EPA Oversight: One-Year Review

UPLOADED 06 July 2021

In 1982, majority members in the House convened a hearing to review the EPA, about which there were a variety of concerns. The Chairman of the House Subcommittee on Environment, Energy and Natural Resources, Toby Moffett, stated, “The Administration of the EPA, even some Members of Congress, claim that all is well at EPA. Frankly, some of us don’t believe it. That is why we are here today.” While the hearings ranged across many aspects of the agency, a key focus was enforcement, which many members of Congress believed had been struck a ruinous blow by Administrator Anne Gorsuch. Senator Patrick Leahy (D-Vermont) and his staff, for example, conducted a study of the agency and concluded that “the effectiveness of the enforcement division of the Environmental Protection Agency was virtually destroyed by a combination of mismanagement and mixed signals.” As a result, “good environmental legislation passed with bipartisan support over the last 20 years… and strong public support, is being repealed in a back-door manner by not enforcing it.”

LINK TO THIS ARTICLE

https://www.apeoplesepa.org/modules/epa-oversight-one-year-review

SOURCE

U.S. Congress

CITATION

U.S. Congress, “EPA Oversight: One-Year Review,” July 21 and 22, 1982

Hazardous Waste Enforcement: Report of the Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations of the Committee on Energy and Commerce

UPLOADED 06 July 2021

In a scathing report based on Congressional hearings earlier in 1982, the House Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigation ticked off numerous issues with the agency's hazardous waste enforcement program. It noted disrupted agency reorganization, a steep drop in civil cases initiated, and a philosophy of "voluntary compliance" that was ineffective without the threat of strong enforcement to back it up. The EPA had failed to implement hazardous waste laws enacted by Congress, according to Chairman John Dingell, and as a result was failing to protect public health and the environment.

LINK TO THIS ARTICLE

https://www.apeoplesepa.org/modules/hazardous-waste-enforcement-report

SOURCE

U.S. Congress

CITATION

U.S. Congress, "Hazardous Waste Enforcement: Report of the Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations of the Committee on Energy and Commerce," (GPO, 1982).

More Permission to Pollute: The Decline of EPA Enforcement and Industry Compliance during COVID

UPLOADED 06 July 2021

On March 26, 2020, the EPA suspended pollution monitoring requirements for regulated entities that claimed to have been impacted by Covid-19. EDGI’s Environmental Enforcement Watch used EPA’s ECHO database to analyze facility reporting and compliance. This analysis showed that although few facilities claimed the Covid-19 exemption, a significant proportion of facilities had still failed to report data that would allow for a determination of non-compliance.

LINK TO THIS ARTICLE

https://www.apeoplesepa.org/modules/more-permission-to-pollute

SOURCE

Environmental Data & Governance Initiative

CITATION

EDGI, “More Permission to Pollute: The Decline of EPA Enforcement and Industry Compliance during COVID,” August 13, 2020

Next Generation Compliance: Strategic Plan, 2014-2017

UPLOADED 06 July 2021

Cynthia Giles, head of enforcement under the Obama administration, outlined a new approach to enforcement and compliance at the EPA known as “Next Generation Compliance,” or Next Gen for short. The Next Gen idea was built around five, interconnected components: Regulation and permit design, innovative enforcement, advanced monitoring, electronic reporting, and transparency.

LINK TO THIS ARTICLE

https://www.apeoplesepa.org/modules/next-generation-compliance

SOURCE

Environmental Protection Agency

CITATION

EPA, "Next Generation Compliance: Strategic Plan, 2014-2017," October 2014.

Possible Reasons for Declines in Inspection, Enforcement and Ideas for Reversing

UPLOADED 07 July 2021

Enforcement metrics declined markedly under the Trump administration. While the EPA did not acknowledge this publicly, it did in internal documents. In this document, the Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assistance leadership considered various reasons for the decline in enforcement. These included: lack of resources (staff and budget); increased industry influence and pushback; intervention from leadership that is slowing work; uncertainty about regulatory changes; and a general perception among staff that enforcement, or certain types of enforcement, are not appropriate, not welcome by the leadership, or are unlikely to be successful under the new administration’s approach (a “chilling effect,” as the document put it).

LINK TO THIS ARTICLE

https://www.apeoplesepa.org/modules/possible-reasons-for-declines

SOURCE

Anonymous Source

CITATION

EPA, “Possible Reasons for Declines in Inspection, Enforcement and Ideas for Reversing,” (Internal Deliberative Draft), June 14, 2018.

Download Full Transcript

Primer: How Enforcement Works at the EPA

UPLOADED 18 June 2021

Part of the reason that enforcement flies under the radar is that it is complex. It is hard for even experienced journalists and policy analysts to understand the complexities of enforcement and the data on enforcement that the agency produces. In this section, we provide a brief primer on how enforcement works at the EPA..

First, it is important to understand that enforcement is the implementation of regulations and laws. When legislators pass laws, they direct administering agencies, like the EPA, to write regulations that flesh out those laws. The agency further shapes the implementation of regulations by writing guidance documents, memos and other documents that give administrators and employees more detailed directives about how to carry out the law.

Further complicating the enforcement process is the U.S. federalist system of environmental laws. Since the 1970s, the national government has passed a series of strong environmental laws, most of which are administered by the EPA, a national agency. But for most laws, the EPA can delegate authority to enforce the law to the states and tribal governments. Most states have the authorized power to enforce federal environmental laws, such as the Clean Air Act and Clean Water Act, which is why most environmental enforcement actions are undertaken by state environmental agencies. While most enforcement is, and has been, done by states, the EPA steps in to work on big or complicated cases (with help from the Justice Department), or to step in where states are not adequately enforcing laws.

The details of federally run enforcement practices vary across laws, but generally they happen as follows. The EPA assists regulated entities (businesses, municipalities, and so on) in complying with the law, while also monitoring them for violations. Monitoring may consist of information requests and self-reporting from industries, electronic data collection, and on-site inspections. The EPA also gathers tips from citizens. If it finds a violation, it may initiate an informal enforcement action, such as sending a notice of violation or a warning letter. Or, it may initiate formal enforcement actions. These are of two main types: civil cases (for violations of civil code) and criminal cases (for violations of the criminal code).

For civil violations, the EPA can pursue administrative or judicial cases. The most common enforcement actions are administrative, which entail the agency itself issuing a formal notice of violation or an order requiring compliance. There are many different categories of administrative enforcement actions, reflecting the variety of mechanisms available for compelling compliance.

Civil judicial cases are those cases pursued in court outside the EPA’s administrative apparatus. While less common than administrative cases, judicial cases are usually the most serious civil cases. The Department of Justice (DOJ) takes the lead on these cases, and so when these cases are initiated they are counted as “civil judicial referrals” to the DOJ. These cases typically end in consent decrees, which are a form of court-ordered negotiated settlement (with fines or compliance orders, or both).

Both administrative orders and court orders, including consent decrees, can impose civil penalties on violators and can require them to come into compliance. The EPA tracks the fines (penalties) levied in civil cases and estimates the compliance costs (also called “injunctive relief”) that result from orders and settlements. EPA also tracks the amount of money committed for Supplemental Environmental Projects (SEPs), another potential outcome of cases. SEPs require violators to fund projects to improve environmental or human health in affected communities.

Finally, in addition to civil actions (administrative and judicial) the EPA may pursue criminal enforcement actions. It undertakes these actions against the most egregious violators of environmental laws. As in civil judicial cases, the DOJ prosecutes these on behalf of the EPA, working closely with EPA criminal investigators. Criminal cases can result not just in monetary penalties but also prison time for those held responsible.