Comment Alert! EPA Seeks Elimination of Agribusiness Pollution Reporting Requirement

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EPA PROPOSES EMISSION RULE ROLLBACK Scientists with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have determined that ammonia and hydrogen sulfide are hazardous to human health. The EPA estimates that two-thirds of the ammonia emissions reported in the U.S. are generated by farmed animal facilities. Since the 1980’s, large facilities have had to report the amount of these gases they emit. However, pressured by agribusiness lobbyists and legislators from agriculture-oriented states, the EPA has proposed ending this requirement. The Agency argues that the reports are not used by local authorities and so are unnecessary. Local air-quality agencies, environmental groups, and legislators opposed the change, contending the reports are valuable in holding facilities accountable for pollution. The EPA proposal came after communities sued several large operations, demanding monetary compensation and stricter emission controls. Critics say it is part of a larger effort by the Bush administration to roll back

environmental protections (see, for example: http://tinyurl.com/2t82zk). The deadline for submitting public comments on the proposed rule change is March 27th. To submit comments, go to Regulations.gov at: http://tinyurl.com/2wzyagSee also: http://tinyurl.com/3cd7ok and http://tinyurl.com/2qkfy7

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