EPA Updates: Strengthening Emissions Limits, PFAS Designations, and Enforcement Priorities

Welcome to our latest podcast on the Environmental Protection Agency's recent news and developments. This week, we're focusing on significant updates that could have far-reaching impacts on American citizens, businesses, and state and local governments.

The most significant headline from the EPA this week comes from its proposal to strengthen limits on emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx) from new heavy-duty trucks and engines. This move aims to reduce air pollution and protect public health, particularly in low-income communities and communities of color that are disproportionately affected by environmental hazards.

In addition to this proposal, the EPA has been busy with several other significant announcements. In April 2024, the EPA finalized a rule designating two PFAS compounds, PFOA and PFOS, including their salts and structural isomers, as hazardous substances under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA). This move is part of the EPA's broader strategy to address PFAS contamination, building on its 2021 PFAS Strategic Road Map and 2023 Second Annual Progress Report.

The EPA has also updated its Safer Choice and Design for the Environment (DfE) Standard, effective August 30, 2024. This update aims to promote safer chemicals in products and processes. Furthermore, the EPA has issued the calendar year 2025 allowances for the production and consumption of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) under the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act. This is part of the ongoing effort to phase down HFCs, which are potent greenhouse gases, by 85% by 2036.

In terms of enforcement, the EPA has announced its 2024 to 2027 National Enforcement and Compliance Initiatives, focusing on six priority areas including mitigating climate change, addressing exposure to PFAS, and protecting communities from environmental hazards. The EPA's enforcement and compliance assurance programs issued six advisory or alert documents in FY 2024, addressing issues such as illegal imports of hydrofluorocarbons, methane releases from landfills, and noncompliance with coal ash disposal.

EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan emphasized the importance of these initiatives, stating, "EPA remains committed to ensuring agricultural and rural communities are fully engaged as partners in our work to protect our environment and advance public health."

The EPA's budget for FY 2024 includes significant allocations for enforcement and compliance assurance efforts, with $757 million and 3,354 FTE dedicated to strengthening compliance with the Nation’s environmental laws and holding violators accountable. This includes an increase of $22.6 million and 38.3 FTE above the FY 2023 enacted levels to rebuild the inspector corps.

Citizens can engage with the EPA on these critical issues by providing feedback through the Federal Register notice. For example, the EPA is seeking public comment on the draft framework for cumulative impacts until February 19, 2025.

In conclusion, this week's updates from the EPA highlight the agency's ongoing efforts to protect public health and the environment. From addressing PFAS pollution to promoting environmental justice, the EPA is working to ensure that all communities have access to clean air and water.

For more information on these developments and how to get involved, visit the EPA's website. Stay tuned for more updates and remember to engage with the EPA on these critical issues. Thank you for listening.