Regulatory Enforcement
You have received a letter of violations from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or a state agency. You hope you are prepared to address the infractions. It may be something simple that you forgot to do or you’re sure you know you have documented and submitted all of the information as required, but you still did not meet the regulatory requirements.
How to Respond to EPA Regulatory Enforcement Letter
It is important to consider any letter from the EPA or a state regulatory agency to be a legal document. As such, the information they request is a formal, written request for information related to environmental non-compliance. Accordingly, you should structure your response to address the specific request. Your response is critical because if this information is deemed non-confidential, this information could be made public upon request. The amount and specificity of the information requested by the regulatory agency can be overwhelming. It would probably be wise to seek help from environmental experts rather than trying to do it on your own.
Time is of the Essence
Typically, you have a limited time (60-days) to respond to a violation letter. However, your company could receive fines or named negligent if you do not respond promptly. Let’s assume that’s not you. Obviously, you need someone to review your situation, develop a step-by-step plan of action, and help you implement it. Further, you may need someone to negotiate with the agency on your behalf.
Rindt-McDuff Associates Can Help You with EPA Regulatory Enforcement Response
Fortunately, RMA’s environmental specialists have worked for regulators, and they understand how to interface with them. RMA can offer experience to help you navigate through this process. As a matter of a fact, our consulting services include discussing the typical paths you might take and how each one will trigger a unique enforcement action. Furthermore, we can help guide you through the entire process by negotiating with the regulatory agency on your behalf.
What’s Next?
If you find yourself facing an inspection or enforcement action, click below. One of our seasoned environmental consultants will be in touch with you soon.