EPA rejects Alabama’s coal ash law plan.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has taken a stand to protect people and waterways in Alabama by rejecting the state’s proposal to take over coal ash regulation. The agency made it clear that the state’s plan fell short of the necessary measures to safeguard against potential harm.
According to the EPA, Alabama’s proposal did not meet the required level of protection mandated by federal regulations. One key issue highlighted was the lack of adequate measures to address groundwater contamination during the closure of coal ash units.
EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan emphasized the agency’s commitment to shielding individuals from harmful pollutants like coal ash, which can pose serious health risks including cancer. Regan stated in a news release, “EPA is laser-focused on protecting people from exposure to pollution.”
Coal ash, a byproduct of burning coal for electricity generation, contains harmful contaminants such as mercury, chromium, and arsenic, which are known to be linked to cancer and other health problems. States can take on the responsibility of overseeing coal ash disposal, but they must adhere to minimum federal requirements to ensure proper regulation.
The decision made by the EPA to reject Alabama’s program comes after the agency raised concerns last year regarding deficiencies in the state’s permits for closure requirements of unlined surface impoundments, groundwater monitoring, and necessary corrective actions.
Alabama Department of Environmental Management spokesperson M. Lynn Battle mentioned that the agency is currently reviewing the 174-page document from the EPA and will provide a response at a later time.
Various environmental advocacy groups, including the Southern Environmental Law Center, have applauded the EPA’s rejection of Alabama’s proposal. Cade Kistler of Mobile Baykeeper expressed satisfaction with the decision, stating, “Today marks a significant victory for every Alabamian who values clean water.”
Kistler continued by emphasizing the importance of proper coal ash disposal practices, highlighting that leaving toxic coal ash in unlined leaking pits near rivers is unacceptable. The EPA’s final denial serves as a confirmation of the concerns voiced by communities regarding the potential dangers of inadequate coal ash regulation.
