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EPA to Conduct Environmental Program Reviews in Four States
Release Date: 12/17/2007
Contact Information: Kim Olson, (913) 551-7458, [email protected]
Environmental News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(Kansas City, Kan., Dec. 17, 2007) - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Region 7 office in Kansas City, Kan., will review EPA programs that are being carried out by the Iowa, Kansas, Missouri and Nebraska environmental departments. Region 7 announced a tentative four-year review schedule at a meeting with the four state environmental directors last week.
EPA has delegated a large share of its authority to the states. The Agency recognizes that it is beneficial for state, local, and tribal agencies to take the lead in carrying out these laws, because pollution control programs often require special understanding of local industries, geography, housing patterns, and other factors.
EPA maintains responsibility for delegated programs and continues to be accountable for progress toward meeting national goals and ensuring that federal statutes are effectively implemented. The Agency fulfills this obligation, in part, by periodically conducting comprehensive reviews of programs delegated to the states.
The Agency has planned an on-site evaluation for 2008 of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources air quality programs. This review will address, but is not limited to, planning, permitting, compliance and enforcement. Specific reviews might include such elements as adequacy of recordkeeping and staffing, frequency of inspections, and grant management. Deficiencies in state-managed programs can sometimes lead to withholding federal money and increased EPA oversight.
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