California businesses that release anything into the air as a result of their business must follow the Clean Air Act of 1970. The Clean Air Act, also known as the CAA, is the primary federal law that regulates air emissions, but there are a litany of state and local laws and regulations that flow from the original CAA and its amendments.
NAAQS
Under the CAA, the Environmental Protection Agency established National Ambient Air Quality Standards. These NAAQS were developed to regulate emissions to protect the air from hazardous pollutants for the public health and welfare of those throughout the United States. This also included helping the states develop their own state implementation plans to achieve the NAAQS.
Compliance
EPA partners with tribal, state and other federal agencies to implement their compliance monitoring program. These programs ensure that regulated entities obey the federal, state, local and tribal laws and regulations, which is ensured with on-site inspection and the review of documents and records. If California businesses do not abide by these compliance programs, the EPA has several enforcement mechanisms to compel compliance or mandate monetary penalties.
What if my business receives a notice from the EPA?
Do not ignore violation notices. Ignoring these notices can escalate the matter, which could mean huge monetary penalties and the shutdown of your business. You will likely need to contact an environmental law attorney as well to fight on your side. Remember, you are fighting the entire weight of the federal government.The post An overview of the Clean Air Act first appeared on Caufield & James, LLP.