Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Proposed Rollback of Risk Management Program: A Call to Action
On Tuesday, March 10, I had the honor of being the first to provide testimony at a public hearing on the US Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) proposed rollback of the Risk Management Program (RMP). The RMP is a crucial regulation that mandates approximately 12,000 facilities across the US that use extremely hazardous substances to plan, prepare for, and prevent chemical disasters. For the past six years, I have been advocating for stronger regulations under the RMP rule, a process that has been filled with frustrations and challenges, with real human lives at stake.
During the Obama administration, efforts were made to strengthen the RMP policy, but unfortunately, it was gutted in 2019 under the Trump administration. However, under President Biden, the EPA finalized the Safer Communities by Chemical Accident Prevention (SCCAP) rule. While not perfect, the SCCAP rule introduced critical measures to not only respond to but prevent chemical disasters. These measures included considerations for climate hazards, enhanced worker protections, improved emergency response and information availability, and the implementation of safer technologies and processes at select facilities.
Unfortunately, the SCCAP rule was swiftly targeted for rollback by the industry under the Trump administration. The EPA, under Administrator Zeldin’s leadership, appeared to prioritize industry interests over public safety, leading to the elimination of important public data tools without notice. This move was met with disappointment and concern from advocacy groups like the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS).
The EPA recently published the so-called “Common Sense Approach to Chemical Accident Prevention” rule, which significantly weakens and eliminates many of the protections introduced under the SCCAP rule. The proposed rollbacks align closely with the industry’s wish list, disregarding the concerns raised by public health advocates and environmental organizations. The limited public comment period for the new rule reflects a concerning trend of excluding public input in decisions that impact our health and safety.
As the EPA is currently accepting written comments on the proposed rule until April 10, it is crucial for concerned citizens to voice their opposition to the rollback. The public can make a difference by submitting comments and advocating for the preservation of critical protections under the 2024 SCCAP rule. Every effort counts in ensuring the safety of workers, first responders, and communities at risk of chemical disasters.
In conclusion, the proposed rollback of the Risk Management Program is a step in the wrong direction. We must urge the EPA to abandon this harmful rule and reinstate the protections established under the SCCAP rule. By working together and advocating for stronger regulations, we can safeguard our communities and prevent future chemical disasters. Thank you for your attention and support.
