Synopsis
As a result of enforcement actions and settlements for noncompliance with federal pollution control requirements, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reported that, for FY2007, regulated entities committed to invest an estimated $10.6 billion for judicially mandated controls and cleanup, and for implementing mutually agreed upon (supplemental) environmentally beneficial projects. EPA estimates that these efforts achieved commitments to reduce 900 million pounds of pollutants in the environment, primarily from air and water. EPA also assessed more than $145 million in civil and criminal fines and restitution during FY2007. Nevertheless, noncompliance with federal pollution control laws remains a continuing concern. The overall effectiveness of the current enforcement organizational framework, the balance between state autonomy and federal oversight, and the adequacy of funding are long-standing congressional concerns.
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