EPA, California Draw Skepticism Over Model MOU To Boost EJ Enforcement

摘要

EPA has signed what officials are calling a first-of-its-kind model memorandum of understanding (MOU) with California officials to bolster its environmental justice (EJ) enforcement strategy and other efforts, though the deal is drawing skepticism from some local activists who have long pressed regulators to take more aggressive actions. "Communities want to see action from government to protect people and the environment, not more nice words and promises that frequently are broken," says one EJ group leader. At issue is a Sept. 10 MOU signed by Deborah Jordan, acting administrator of EPA Region 9, and CalEPA Secretary Jared Blumenfeld, which the agencies say will expand joint activities supporting their goals of reducing pollution burdens, increasing environmental compliance and improving public health in overburdened California communities.