Federal Independent Agencies
Here's a look at documents from federal independent agencies
Featured Stories
EPA Removes Hazardous Stockpile of Flammable Hand Sanitizer in Romulus, New York
WASHINGTON, April 8 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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EPA Removes Hazardous Stockpile of Flammable Hand Sanitizer in Romulus, New York
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Romulus, N.Y. \- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has removed approximately 230,000 gallons (920 tons) of expired, alcohol-based hand sanitizer and related waste from a warehouse at the former Seneca Army Depot in Romulus, New York, eliminating a significant fire and safety risk to nearby communities. The material was stored in deteriorating containers inside a building without fire suppression systems
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WASHINGTON, April 8 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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EPA Removes Hazardous Stockpile of Flammable Hand Sanitizer in Romulus, New York
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Romulus, N.Y. \- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has removed approximately 230,000 gallons (920 tons) of expired, alcohol-based hand sanitizer and related waste from a warehouse at the former Seneca Army Depot in Romulus, New York, eliminating a significant fire and safety risk to nearby communities. The material was stored in deteriorating containers inside a building without fire suppression systemsor active utilities, creating conditions that could have led to a fire or explosion if left unaddressed.
"Large stockpiles of alcohol-based flammable materials like this can quickly become dangerous when not properly stored," said EPA Regional Administrator Michael Martucci. "This was a real fire risk, but EPA removed the material that was haphazardly stored before it could put people and neighboring communities in danger."
EPA began work at the site in September 2025 at the request of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. Crews inventoried, repackaged, and consolidated hundreds of pallets and containers of sanitizer and related waste to prepare them for safe removal. EPA then loaded the material into secure shipping containers and transported it off-site to approved recycling and disposal facilities.
EPA will continue coordinating with state partners and pursue appropriate enforcement actions to hold responsible parties accountable for the costs of the cleanup.
The hazards tied to expired sanitizer are not unique to Romulus. In January 2026, EPA completed a similar cleanup at a warehouse on Highland Avenue in Niagara Falls, New York, where the agency addressed hazardous conditions involving large volumes of stored sanitizer. EPA also continues to respond to a fire-related incident at the Eco Operations facility in Gorham, New York, where large quantities of expired sanitizer contributed to a major fire in August 2025. Though the product is commonly used in small amounts, stockpiles of this size can create serious fire and safety risks, particularly in older or poorly maintained buildings.
Follow EPA Region 2 on X Exit EPA's website, Instagram Exit EPA's website, and visit our Facebook Exit EPA's website page. For more information about EPA Region 2, visit our website.
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Original text here: https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-removes-hazardous-stockpile-flammable-hand-sanitizer-romulus-new-york
EPA Recognizes Excellence and Innovation in New York and New Jersey Water Infrastructure Projects
WASHINGTON, April 8 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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EPA Recognizes Excellence and Innovation in New York and New Jersey Water Infrastructure Projects
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NEW YORK - U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Assistant Administrator for Water Jessica Kramer helped recognize 48 water infrastructure projects for excellence and innovation, including projects in New York and New Jersey. These projects, financed in part by State Revolving Fund (SRF) programs, demonstrate the importance of water infrastructure for supporting healthy Americans and laying
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, April 8 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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EPA Recognizes Excellence and Innovation in New York and New Jersey Water Infrastructure Projects
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NEW YORK - U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Assistant Administrator for Water Jessica Kramer helped recognize 48 water infrastructure projects for excellence and innovation, including projects in New York and New Jersey. These projects, financed in part by State Revolving Fund (SRF) programs, demonstrate the importance of water infrastructure for supporting healthy Americans and layinga foundation for economic prosperity.
"Water infrastructure funding keeps Americans healthy and fuels economic growth. Projects like these deliver safe drinking water, dependable wastewater service, and affordable bills -while construction boosts local jobs," said EPA Regional Administrator Michael Martucci. "Congratulations to these outstanding award winners for their truly remarkable achievements!"
The Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) programs have provided a foundation of federal investment in water infrastructure for decades. The SRF programs directly support EPA's Powering the Great American Comeback Initiative Exit EPA's website, which emphasizes the need for clean air, land, and water for every American and the importance of cooperative federalism.
Drinking Water: AQUARIUS Awards
EPA's AQUARIUS program celebrates drinking water projects financed in part by the DWSRFs that are innovative, resilient, and protect public health. Twenty-two projects carried out by state or local governments and drinking water utilities were recognized by the 2026 AQUARIUS program.
Exceptional Project Program Honorable Mention
In New Jersey, the Passaic Valley Water Commission was recognized for replacing 4,722 lead and galvanized service lines in Clifton, Passaic, Paterson, and Prospect Park. They used $37.2 million in financing, including $27.78 million in principal forgiveness, to complete the project ahead of the 2031 deadline. The replacements were done at no cost to property owners, supported by community outreach in multiple languages. This project aimed to protect public health and comply with federal requirements by replacing old service lines with safer ones.
Clean Water: PISCES Awards
EPA's George F. Ames PISCES program celebrates innovation demonstrated by wastewater and stormwater projects financed by the CWSRF programs. Twenty-six projects carried out by state or local governments, public utilities, and private entities were recognized by the 2026 PISCES program. From Region 2, two entities were recognized.
Excellence in System Partnerships: Western Wayne County Water and Sewer Authority, New York
In New York, the New York Environmental Facilities Corporation is partnering with the Wayne County Water and Sewer Authority (WCWSA) to improve wastewater treatment in the Towns of Marion, Macedon, Walworth, and the Village of Palmyra. The water and sewer authority is consolidating four existing wastewater treatment plants into a single regional facility, funded by $64.5 million in CWSRF assistance and $41 million in state grants. This new facility will provide more efficient processes and equipment, with a longer life expectancy, and will help maintain sustainable sewer rates by sharing costs across the consolidated district. The project addresses compliance violations and improves critical infrastructure for the region.
Exceptional Project Program Honorable Mention
The City of Camden, New Jersey was recognized for its sewer system rehabilitation project, funded with $6.5 million in CWSRF assistance, is a crucial part of the city's revitalization strategy. Camden is addressing failing sanitary and combined sewer systems that caused flooding, contamination risks, and public health concerns. It replaced over 112,000 linear feet of deteriorated sewer pipes and installed more than 2,300 feet of cured-in-place liners, reducing flooding and emergency repairs. Camden leveraged affordable financing and substantial principal forgiveness to save over $8 million, enhancing fiscal stability. These improvements will result in cleaner waterways, safer streets, and a more reliable sewer system, supporting Camden's redevelopment goals and serving as a model for sustainable infrastructure investment.
Background
The State Revolving Fund programs are EPA-state partnerships that provide communities with low-cost financing for a wide range of water quality and drinking water infrastructure projects. Since their creation, the SRFs have provided over $265 billion in financial assistance to more than 50,000 water quality infrastructure projects and 76,000 drinking water projects across the country.
See the full list of recognized projects and learn more about the AQUARIUS Exit EPA's website and PISCES Exit EPA's website programs.
Follow EPA Region 2 on X Exit EPA's website, Instagram Exit EPA's website, and visit our Facebook Exit EPA's website page. For more information about EPA Region 2, visit our website.
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Original text here: https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-recognizes-excellence-and-innovation-new-york-and-new-jersey-water-infrastructure
EPA Recognizes Excellence and Innovation in Local Water Infrastructure Projects Across the Nation
WASHINGTON, April 8 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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EPA Recognizes Excellence and Innovation in Local Water Infrastructure Projects Across the Nation
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Today, at the 2026 Council of Infrastructure Financing Authorities (CIFA) Summit on Water Infrastructure, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Assistant Administrator for Water Jess Kramer helped recognize 48 water infrastructure projects for excellence and innovation. Each project, financed in part by the State Revolving Fund (SRF) programs, demonstrated the importance of water infrastructure
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, April 8 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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EPA Recognizes Excellence and Innovation in Local Water Infrastructure Projects Across the Nation
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Today, at the 2026 Council of Infrastructure Financing Authorities (CIFA) Summit on Water Infrastructure, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Assistant Administrator for Water Jess Kramer helped recognize 48 water infrastructure projects for excellence and innovation. Each project, financed in part by the State Revolving Fund (SRF) programs, demonstrated the importance of water infrastructurefor supporting healthy Americans and laying a foundation for economic prosperity.
"Across the country, states are putting State Revolving Fund resources to work in ways that deliver real, lasting benefits for communities by modernizing aging systems, strengthening resilience, and ensuring families can rely on safe, clean water every day," said Assistant Administrator Jess Kramer. "These projects show that when we pair federal investment with state leadership, we can protect human health, support local economies, and reach communities that have too often been left behind."
The Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) programs have provided a foundation of federal investment in water infrastructure for decades. The SRF programs directly support EPA's Powering the Great American Comeback Initiative, which emphasizes the need for clean air, land, and water for every American and the importance of cooperative federalism.
Drinking Water: AQUARIUS Awards
EPA's AQUARIUS program celebrates drinking water projects financed in part by the DWSRFs that are innovative, resilient, and protect public health. Twenty-two projects carried out by state or local governments and drinking water utilities were recognized by the 2026 AQUARIUS program, including these exceptional projects:
* Excellence in Innovative Financing: Nassau County - American Beach Water and Sewer District, Florida
* Excellence in System Partnerships: Scituate Housing Authority, Rhode Island
* Excellence in Community Engagement: City of Baltimore, Maryland
* Excellence in Environmental and Public Health Protection: City of Westbrook, Minnesota
* Excellence in Infrastructure Designed for the Future: City of Antioch, California
Clean Water: PISCES Awards
EPA's George F. Ames PISCES program celebrates innovation demonstrated by wastewater and stormwater projects financed by the CWSRF programs. Twenty-six projects carried out by state or local governments, public utilities, and private entities were recognized by the 2026 PISCES program, including the following exceptional projects:
* Excellence in Innovative Financing: City of Roswell, New Mexico
* Excellence in System Partnerships: Western Wayne County Water and Sewer Authority, New York
* Excellence in Community Engagement: Nassau County, Florida
* Excellence in Environmental and Public Health Protection: Lummi Tribal Sewer and Water District, Washington
* Excellence in Infrastructure Designed for the Future: City of Escondido, California
EPA also recognized state SRF programs through the new State Excellence Recognition Program, which celebrates high-performing state SRF programs that demonstrate outstanding financial and program management and effective delivery of assistance across both the CWSRF and DWSRF. Three state SRF programs were recognized by the program, including one state from the DWSRF and two from the CWSRF for exceptional overall program performance to protect public health and the environment.
* DWSRF State Excellence Award: Ohio Environmental Protection Agency
* CWSRF State Excellence Award: Oklahoma Water Resources Board
* CWSRF State Excellence Honorable Mention: Indiana Finance Authority
See the full list of recognized projects and learn more about the AQUARIUS and PISCES programs.
Background
The State Revolving Fund programs are EPA-state partnerships that provide communities with low-cost financing for a wide range of water quality and drinking water infrastructure projects. Since their creation, the SRFs have provided over $265 billion in financial assistance to more than 50,000 water quality infrastructure projects and 76,000 drinking water projects across the country.
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Original text here: https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-recognizes-excellence-and-innovation-local-water-infrastructure-projects-across
EPA Recognizes Excellence and Innovation in Indiana Water Infrastructure Program
WASHINGTON, April 8 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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EPA Recognizes Excellence and Innovation in Indiana Water Infrastructure Program
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U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Assistant Administrator for Water Jessica Kramer recently recognized 48 water infrastructure projects for excellence and innovation, including Indiana's Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) and Citizens Energy Group lead service line replacement project. This award demonstrates the importance of water infrastructure for supporting healthy Americans and laying a
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, April 8 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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EPA Recognizes Excellence and Innovation in Indiana Water Infrastructure Program
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U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Assistant Administrator for Water Jessica Kramer recently recognized 48 water infrastructure projects for excellence and innovation, including Indiana's Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) and Citizens Energy Group lead service line replacement project. This award demonstrates the importance of water infrastructure for supporting healthy Americans and laying afoundation for economic prosperity.
"Indiana's commitment to protecting public health and ensuring safe, reliable drinking water for its communities is truly exemplary, " said EPA Regional Administrator Anne Vogel. "By strategically replacing lead service lines and coordinating with every level of government to minimize costs, Citizens Energy and the Indiana Finance Authority are both setting a high standard for others to follow. This recognition reflects the dedication and collaboration of our awardees to deliver measurable benefits and resilient water infrastructure statewide."
The Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) programs have provided a foundation of federal investment in water infrastructure for decades. The State Revolving Fund (SRF) programs directly support EPA's Powering the Great American Comeback Initiative Exit EPA's website, which emphasizes the need for clean air, land, and water for every American and the importance of cooperative federalism.
EPA's AQUARIUS program celebrates drinking water projects financed in part by the DWSRFs that are innovative, resilient, and protect public health. The Citizens Energy Group was given an honorable mention for their lead service replacement project in Indianapolis.
EPA also recognized SRF programs through the new State Excellence Recognition Program, which celebrates high-performing SRF programs that demonstrate outstanding financial and program management and effective delivery of assistance across both the CWSRF and DWSRF. The Indiana Finance Authority was given an honorable mention for drinking water state revolving fund state excellence.
Indiana Aquarius Award:
The Citizens Energy Group secured an $11 million lead service line replacement loan to replace lead pipes on public property and private property where access is granted. Groups were able to coordinate and minimize cost by timing replacements with planned infrastructure projects. This also helped minimize construction impacts and community disruption. Local community organizations partnered in outreach, educating residents and encouraging participation in the replacement program.
The grant initially targeted the Martindale-Brightwood neighborhood of Indianapolis. The neighborhood is home to about 13,000 residents and was identified as a priority area due to its low median household income and a high concentration of lead service lines. Citizens Energy Group is now seeking to expand the program to additional priority areas and eliminate lead service lines city-wide.
State Excellence Recognition:
The Indiana Finance Authority has consistently excelled in its programmatic and financial management of their clean water state revolving fund program. The efficiency of Indiana's program can be highlighted with its 480% federal return on investment. Indiana is unique in its use of a pooled loan program to fund projects above and beyond the traditional SRF fundable range. The program allows communities to utilize the State's "AAA" credit rating interest rate, which allows in significant savings for communities. In 2025, the pooled loan program provided six communities with $265 million in loan funding. Through this innovative financing technique, Indiana enabled more projects and provided communities with almost $62 million in savings.
See the full list of recognized projects and learn more about the AQUARIUS and PISCES programs.
Background
The SRF programs are EPA-state partnerships that provide communities with low-cost financing for a wide range of water quality and drinking water infrastructure projects. The SRFs have provided over $265 billion in financial assistance to more than 50,000 water quality infrastructure projects and 76,000 drinking water projects across the country.
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Original text here: https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-recognizes-excellence-and-innovation-indiana-water-infrastructure-program
EPA Recognizes Excellence and Innovation in Florida Water Infrastructure Project
WASHINGTON, April 8 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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EPA Recognizes Excellence and Innovation in Florida Water Infrastructure Project
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NASSAU COUNTY, Florida (April 8, 2026) - U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Assistant Administrator for Water Jessica Kramer recently recognized 48 water infrastructure projects for excellence and innovation, including two awards for the American Beach Water and Sewer district in Nassau County. These projects, financed in part by state revolving fund (SRF) programs, demonstrate the importance of water infrastructure
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, April 8 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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EPA Recognizes Excellence and Innovation in Florida Water Infrastructure Project
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NASSAU COUNTY, Florida (April 8, 2026) - U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Assistant Administrator for Water Jessica Kramer recently recognized 48 water infrastructure projects for excellence and innovation, including two awards for the American Beach Water and Sewer district in Nassau County. These projects, financed in part by state revolving fund (SRF) programs, demonstrate the importance of water infrastructurefor supporting healthy Americans and laying a foundation for economic prosperity.
"Across the country, states are putting State Revolving Fund resources to work in ways that deliver real, lasting benefits for communities by modernizing aging systems, strengthening resilience, and ensuring families can rely on safe, clean water every day," said Kramer. "These projects show that when we pair federal investment with state leadership, we can protect human health, support local economies, and reach communities that have too often been left behind."
"The awards in the Southeast region prove that smaller communities can execute big ideas when it comes to improving water infrastructure," said EPA Regional Administrator Kevin McOmber. "I am thrilled to see communities utilizing the CWSRF and the DWSRF programs to strengthen their water utilities for the protection of human health and the environment."
The Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) programs have provided a foundation of federal investment in water infrastructure for decades. The SRF programs directly support EPA's Powering the Great American Comeback Initiative, which emphasizes the need for clean air, land and water for every American and the importance of cooperative federalism.
EPA's AQUARIUS program celebrates drinking water projects, financed in part by the DWSRFs, that are innovative, resilient and protective of public health. Twenty-two projects carried out by state or local governments and drinking water utilities were recognized by the 2026 AQUARIUS program, including the Excellence in Innovative Financing Award for American Beach Water and Sewer District in Nassau County.
In partnership with Nassau County, American Beach Water and Sewer District used a $1.32 million DWSRF loan plus two federal grants, as well as state and local funding, to build a centralized water and wastewater service that allowed them to deliver reliable, affordable drinking water and retire failing wells and septic systems.
EPA's George F. Ames PISCES program celebrates innovation demonstrated by wastewater and stormwater projects financed by CWSRF programs. Twenty-six projects carried out by state or local governments, public utilities and private entities were recognized by the 2026 PISCES program, including the Community Engagement Award for the American Beach Water and Sewer District.
The American Beach Septic Tank Phase-Out Project began with 79 letters of commitment from residents indicating their willingness to replace their aging septic system with a connection to a new wastewater system. Residents voted in a straw ballot election to support a per lot fee up to $9,000 as pledged revenue for a construction loan.
The project consists of 13,065 linear feet of gravity sewer and 2,300 linear feet of force main with lift stations to connect 96 parcels to central municipal service. Through $5.4 million in leveraged CWSRF funds, this project brought together eight different funding sources, totaling about $12 million, including state appropriations, a Rural Economic Development Initiative Grant, two legislative appropriations, special property assessments, and county and water management district funds. Government partnerships and community engagement, including an advisory board of community representatives, helped bring this project to completion.
See the full lists of recognized projects and learn more about the AQUARIUS and PISCES programs.
Background
The SRF programs are EPA-state partnerships that provide communities with low-cost financing for a wide range of water quality and drinking water infrastructure projects. The SRFs have provided over $265 billion in financial assistance to more than 50,000 water quality infrastructure projects and 76,000 drinking water projects across the country.
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Original text here: https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-recognizes-excellence-and-innovation-florida-water-infrastructure-project
EPA, State of Maryland Renew Commitment to Agriculture Through Memorandum of Understanding
WASHINGTON, April 8 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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EPA, State of Maryland Renew Commitment to Agriculture Through Memorandum of Understanding
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PHILADELPHIA - U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) signed a renewed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to formalize their partnership and expand collaborative activities related to agricultural practices that benefit the environment, regulatory and compliance programs, outreach, training, communication, and education.
EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator
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WASHINGTON, April 8 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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EPA, State of Maryland Renew Commitment to Agriculture Through Memorandum of Understanding
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PHILADELPHIA - U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) signed a renewed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to formalize their partnership and expand collaborative activities related to agricultural practices that benefit the environment, regulatory and compliance programs, outreach, training, communication, and education.
EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional AdministratorAmy Van Blarcom-Lackey and MDA Secretary Kevin Atticks signed the MOU at the Urban Farm Incubator (UFI) in Prince George's County, Maryland. UFI is a multi-partner initiative led through the County's Soil Conservation District.
"From the Choptank to the Chesapeake, Maryland's producers are showing that economic growth and clean water go hand in hand," said EPA Regional Administrator Amy Van Blarcom-Lackey. "This agreement between EPA and the Maryland Department of Agriculture expands urban and rural farm access to resources and advances practices that enrich soils, improve efficiency, protect waterways, and strengthen communities statewide."
The five-year agreement emphasizes a shared commitment between EPA and Maryland to well-managed, sustainable farms that produce food for local communities and a clean environment for all to enjoy.
"Maryland's farmers demonstrate a strong commitment to environmental stewardship every day," said Maryland Department of Agriculture Secretary Kevin Atticks. "This renewed partnership with the EPA strengthens our commitment to support productive farms and a sustainable environment."
Background
The MOU outlines shared goals and activities to strengthen relations and outcomes for EPA and the Maryland Department of Agriculture:
* Increase state-federal collaboration by participating in organized meetings, sharing updates, and communicating about program activities.
* Encourage transparent and recurring discussions between EPA and the agriculture community by participating in roundtables, farm tours, and events.
* Recognize, measure, and promote environmental stewardship by documenting and sharing agriculture best practices and case studies with farmers.
* Enhance regulatory compliance and improve water quality by participating in joint trainings and program assessments and refining communications on compliance and enforcement activities.
EPA and Maryland will produce an annual report to highlight collective achievements realized under the MOU and to outline plans for the coming year.
EPA's Mid-Atlantic Region (Region 3) serves Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and seven federally recognized Tribes. Follow EPA Region 3 on Instagram Exit EPA's website, X Exit EPA's website and Facebook Exit EPA's website.
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Original text here: https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-state-maryland-renew-commitment-agriculture-through-memorandum-understanding
EPA proposes to redesignate Cleveland area to "attainment" for ozone; area now meets national air quality standards
WASHINGTON, April 8 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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EPA proposes to redesignate Cleveland area to "attainment" for ozone; area now meets national air quality standards
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Cleaner air for Northeast Ohio as key pollutants drop more than 40% in about five years
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing to redesignate the Cleveland area to "attainment" for ground-level ozone after three years of air monitoring show the region meets the national health-based standard. EPA Regional Administrator Anne Vogel joined Ohio Governor Mike DeWine,
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, April 8 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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EPA proposes to redesignate Cleveland area to "attainment" for ozone; area now meets national air quality standards
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Cleaner air for Northeast Ohio as key pollutants drop more than 40% in about five years
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing to redesignate the Cleveland area to "attainment" for ground-level ozone after three years of air monitoring show the region meets the national health-based standard. EPA Regional Administrator Anne Vogel joined Ohio Governor Mike DeWine,U.S. Senator Bernie Moreno, U.S. Representative Dave Joyce, State Representative Bill Roemer and state and county officials to mark the milestone and invite public comment.
"Today's proposal reflects our commitment to clean air for every community while making it easier for responsible projects to move forward," said EPA Regional Administrator Anne Vogel. "Working with Ohio EPA, local leaders, and employers, we cut ozone emissions. That means healthier summers for families across Northeast Ohio and greater certainty for businesses investing and creating jobs."
"This is a big win for public health, our environment, and for Ohio's future," said Gov. Mike DeWine. "The progress to reduce ground-level ozone in this region sends a clear signal that Ohio is a place where businesses can grow and create jobs while also meeting important environmental standards."
"Ohio has done the work to improve air quality, and this redesignation is a recognition of that progress. It's a win for Northeast Ohio-making it easier for industry to build, produce energy and do business-while maintaining our commitment to clean air," said U.S. Sen. Jon Husted.
"The EPA's proposed approval to redesignate the Cleveland area to attainment for ozone is great news for Ohioans. It reflects the meaningful progress our communities have made to improve air quality. This milestone is a testament to the hard work of local leaders and residents, and it proves we can protect our environment while supporting economic growth. As a member of the Environment Subcommittee on the House Energy and Commerce Committee with jurisdiction over these issues, I look forward to seeing this designation finalized," said U.S. Rep. Bob Latta.
"Today's announcement is major news for Northeast Ohio. Cleaner air means healthier kids, stronger communities, and a better quality of life for everyone in the region," said U.S. Rep. Dave Joyce. "This is also an important first step in hopefully eliminating the harmful and burdensome E-Check program that has placed an unfair and disproportionate weight on the hardworking people of Northeast Ohio. By getting rid of red tape and regulation, we are no longer restricting individuals and businesses from growth and economic opportunity. I want to thank our EPA partners, local elected officials, and stakeholders across the region for helping make this possible."
"This is a momentous day in Northeast Ohio for hardworking families and individuals across the seven impacted counties," said State Rep. Bill Roemer. "Having worked diligently on this issue over the past eight years, I'd like to express my gratitude to the U.S. and Ohio EPA for their hard work recognizing air quality improvements in Northeast Ohio."
"This redesignation shows Ohio manufacturers are proving you can grow the economy and clean the air at the same time. Since 1988, industrial investments have helped drive nearly a 90% reduction in total air emissions statewide. Moving Cleveland to attainment gives manufacturers the certainty to keep investing and expanding," said Managing Director of Public Policy Services for the Ohio Manufacturers Association James Lee.
"This milestone reflects the strength of regional collaboration and the impact of sustained local, state, and federal efforts to improve air quality," said NOACA Executive Director and CEO Grace Gallucci. "It is a testament to the strong partnerships between local governments, state agencies, federal leaders, and the private sector, and a clear indication that our region's investments in transportation planning and air quality strategies are making a real difference for our communities."
In 2018, EPA designated the Cleveland area as "nonattainment" for the ozone standard because monitoring showed levels above the health-based limit. Since then, Ohio EPA, local governments, and industry worked together to cut the main pollutants that form ozone-nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). As a result, NOx emissions in the area fell by about 42% and VOC emissions by about 25%, and recent monitoring shows the area meets the standard.
If EPA finalizes the redesignation after considering public comments, air permitting would be faster and more predictable while strong health protections remain in place. Importantly, existing pollution controls will continue, and regional transportation plans and major road projects will still be reviewed to ensure they do not worsen air quality. Federal law requires a maintenance plan to keep the area in attainment for at least 10 years.
The Cleveland area covered by this proposal includes Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake, Lorain, Medina, Portage, and Summit counties. EPA will publish the proposal in the Federal Register and open a 30-day public comment period. The notice will include instructions on how to submit comments and the deadline for doing so. After reviewing public input, EPA will issue a final decision.
To learn more about ground-level ozone and the National Ambient Air Quality Standards, visit EPA's website.
For current air quality and ozone forecasts, visit the EPA AirNow app.
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Original text here: https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-proposes-redesignate-cleveland-area-attainment-ozone-area-now-meets-national-air
EPA awards $30,277,000 to South Carolina for water infrastructure resiliency
WASHINGTON, April 8 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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EPA awards $30,277,000 to South Carolina for water infrastructure resiliency
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Columbia, SC (April 8, 2026) - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded $30,277,000 in supplemental appropriation funds to South Carolina to improve water infrastructure resiliency in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.
"These funds are critical to South Carolina as they rebuild with more resilient water systems that can better withstand severe weather," said EPA Regional Administrator Kevin McOmber.
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, April 8 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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EPA awards $30,277,000 to South Carolina for water infrastructure resiliency
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Columbia, SC (April 8, 2026) - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded $30,277,000 in supplemental appropriation funds to South Carolina to improve water infrastructure resiliency in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.
"These funds are critical to South Carolina as they rebuild with more resilient water systems that can better withstand severe weather," said EPA Regional Administrator Kevin McOmber."We are reminded how critical access to safe clean water is, especially in the most difficult of times."
South Carolina received $17,771,000 for its Drinking Water State Revolving Fund. In addition, South Carolina received $3,102,000 for its Clean Water State Revolving Fund; however, the state has elected to transfer these funds to its Drinking Water State Revolving Fund. This will provide South Carolina with $20,873,000 to make low-interest loans with principal forgiveness toward the cost of planning, design and construction of eligible drinking water improvement projects. This allocation was administered under Section 1452 of the Safe Drinking Water Act.
South Carolina received $9,404,000 for its Clean Water State Revolving Fund to improve the resilience of septic systems and assess and connect homes served by septic systems to centralized wastewater systems. This allocation was administered under Title VI of the Clean Water Act.
BACKGROUND:
These funds are part of the 2025 Supplemental Congressional Appropriation for Hurricanes Helene and Milton and the Hawai'i Wildfires, administered under the State Revolving Fund (SRF). The funds may be used to complete SRF-eligible projects that increase resiliency to natural disasters at facilities impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton and the Hawai'i wildfires. These include projects to improve drinking water and wastewater treatment facilities, distribution and collection systems and source water supply, among others.
More information: www.epa.gov/cwsrf, www.epa.gov/dwsrf, and https://www.epa.gov/system/files/documents/2025-03/sa-hmw-implementation-memorandum.pdf
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Original text here: https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-awards-30277000-south-carolina-water-infrastructure-resiliency
