Environmentalists Back EPA’s Denial Of CCR Request As Alabama Eyes Suit

Environmentalists are applauding EPA’s final denial of Alabama Department of Environmental Management’s (ADEM) application to operate its own coal combustion residuals (CCR) permitting program, though the state is likely to sue over the denial amid concerns that the agency reinterpreted longstanding regulatory requirements. EPA finalized its denial of the state’s CCR permitting program on May 23, emphasizing that the state’s program “is significantly less protective of people and waterways than the federal regulations require.” Environmental groups were quick to applaud...