On August 16, the EPA asked state regulators to deny a permit if the applicant did not demonstrate compliance with the civil rights of the affected people and communities, in addition to complying with the environmental requirements of the permit. We have released a frequently asked questions (“FAQ”) document to advise. The document also includes details on how permit authors should measure and consider the cumulative and devastating impact on minorities and disadvantaged communities. increase. Several state agencies, including those responsible for issuing permits under the provisions of the Clear Air and Clean Water Act, have questioned the EPA’s authority to require consideration of factors other than environmental compliance in permit decisions. is presenting. The FAQ is still in “preliminary” format and open for public comment. The EPA has not issued any comments at this time. However, the EPA has indicated that to date it has not received any comments from any state environmental agency.
