Environment

Upper-Ozone Chemicals Act of 1989

United States · United States Congress · 1 May 1989

Upper-Ozone Chemicals Act of 1989 - Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to list manufactured substances known or reasonably anticipated to cause stratospheric ozone depletion and to assign an ozone depletion potential to each substance (the priority list). Requires the Administrator to list simultaneously and update annually other manufactured substances meeting the same criteria, assigning ozone depletion potentials for each. Includes specified chlorofluorocarbons on each list. Imposes reporting requirements on producers or importers of listed substances. Phases out, five years after this Act's enactment, the production of priority-listed substances for any use other than medical purposes. Prohibits the use or introduction into interstate commerce of a priority-listed substances five years after this Act's enactment except for medical purposes or, until January 1, 2005, to maintain and service household appliances. Directs the Administrator to require a producer of a listed substance to reduce production of such substance more rapidly if new information indicates that expedition is necessary for the protection of human health or the environment or the availability of substitutes makes expedited reductions attainable. Authorizes the President to issue orders exempting from this Act's requirements the production and use of halon-1211 and halon-1301 at any specified site or facility if the President finds that adequate substitutes are not available and the production and use of such substance is necessary to protect national security interests. Directs the Secretary of Defense to: (1) seek to eliminate all emissions of halon-1211 and halon-1301 that occur during the testing of fire-extinguishing equipment; and (2) investigate the feasibility of alternative testing methods that do not result in the release of such substances. Prohibits the importation of a priority-listed substance, any product containing such substance, or any product manufactured with a process that used such substance unless the Administrator has certified that the nations in which such substance or product was manufactured and from which such substance or product was imported have programs that: (1) require reduced production of such substance; and (2) limit the production of other substances covered by this Act pursuant to a schedule and limitations at least as stringent as those applicable under this Act. Deems a person who imports a listed substance or a product containing such substance to have produced such substance for purposes of this Act's requirements. Prohibits the use of listed substances in goods if more than five percent of such substance will be released during the ordinary use of the goods or the goods cannot be serviced with no more than a de minimis release of such substances. Deems listed substances to be hazardous wastes to be disposed of by a means which assures 99 percent destruction of such substances. Requires that goods which contain a listed substance in bulk be disposed of by persons licensed to accept such goods and be disposed of only after the listed substance has been removed from confinement and destroyed. Provides that when such substance is an inherent element of a product, such product must be disposed of by a means assuring 99 percent destruction. Prohibits the release of listed substances in other than de minimis quantities. Requires the Administrator to review, and report annually to the Congress on, sources containing information concerning chemicals, product substitutes, or alternative manufacturing processes that are potential replacements for substances listed pursuant to this Act. Directs the Administrator to require producers of replacement chemicals to provide the EPA with all health and safety studies on such chemicals and to notify the EPA before such chemicals are introduced for commercial use. Authorizes the Administrator to assess civil penalties or seek injunctive relief for violations and to revoke any permit for continued noncompliance. Establishes criminal penalties for knowing violations. Permits judicial review of final regulations and citizen suits against violators or the Administrator, subject to specified conditions.

Municipal Solid Waste Incinerator Act of 1989

United States · United States Congress · 1 May 1989

Municipal Solid Waste Incinerator Act of 1989 - Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to require the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to publish guidelines for identifying materials which should be removed from solid waste before its incineration in a municipal solid waste incinerator. Directs the Administrator to promulgate regulations applicable to the operation and management of municipal solid waste incinerators and to the disposal or recycling and reuse of municipal solid waste incinerator ash. Prohibits the disposal of ash in units that are created as a result of vertical expansion of an existing waste disposal facility unless it is demonstrated that there will be no settling of waste that would impair the integrity of the liners. Requires that landfills into which such ashes are disposed provide for groundwater monitoring and: (1) place such ashes in a monofill having a leachate collection system and a single liner designed and operated to prevent the migration of any constituent into such liner; or (2) have two or more liners and a leachate collection system above and between such liners. Provides that landfill design requirements shall not apply to alternatively-designed units if demonstrated that such designs prevent such migration. Directs the Administrator to prescribe criteria and testing procedures for identifying the hazardous properties of municipal incinerator ash so that ash which does not exhibit such properties may be placed in sanitary landfills meeting current criteria under specified conditions. Requires ash which is hazardous to human health or the environment to be treated prior to recycling or reuse. Requires States to adopt and implement a permit program (or revise an existing program) to ensure that municipal solid waste incinerators and persons who deal with such ash comply with the Administrator's regulations and this Act's requirements. Prohibits, four years after this Act's enactment, the operation of incinerators and the receipt of ash for treatment, storage, disposal, reuse, or recycling without a permit or prior approval under a State program. Grants States primary enforcement authority with respect to such programs if they provide for compliance with requirements of this section. Requires civil penalties imposed against local governments for violations of this Act to be deposited into a trust fund for programs that serve to enhance the protection of human health and the environment. Sets forth transitional provisions.

Prince William Sound Oil Spill Response Act of 1989

United States · United States Congress · 27 April 1989

Prince William Sound Oil Spill Response Act of 1989 - Title I: Oil Spill Prevention and Response - Requires the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating, in the event of an unlawful discharge of oil into or upon Arctic waters or adjoining shorelines, to take all necessary actions to remove the oil and mitigate damage to living marine resources. Directs the Secretary to require: (1) tank vessels transporting oil from the Trans-Alaska Pipeline within Prince William Sound to be escorted by at least one towing or other appropriate vessel; (2) the use of an additional pilot licensed by the State of Alaska, for all tank vessels navigating between the Port of Valdez, Alaska, and a certain point in the Sound; (3) tank vessels operating in the Sound to carry equipment and materials sufficient to minimize environmental damage and respond quickly in the event of an oil spill. Directs the Secretary to prepare a plan to modify radar coverage of the Sound. Requires such plan to include construction of new radar sites to cover the Vessel Traffic System within the Sound and a review of existing radar surveillance and maintenance policies. Directs the Secretary to issue regulations for the Sound to: (1) require the prepositioning of oil spill containment and cleanup equipment in the Port of Valdez, the City of Cordova, and other locations within the geographic boundaries of the Sound; (2) require the person in charge of the Port to provide adequate reception facilities for oil removed from the Sound; (3) establish an oil spill response team at appropriate locations in the Sound; and (4) conduct periodic oil spill response exercises and provide training in oil spill containment and recovery techniques for individuals engaged in fish cultivation or production in the Sound. Title II: Sanctions - Amends Federal provisions concerning shipping licenses, certificates of registry, or merchant mariners documents to revoke any such document if the holder: (1) has been convicted of an alcohol-related offense within ten years of a hearing under such provisions; or (2) has been addicted to alcohol, unless the holder provides satisfactory proof that the addiction is controlled. Directs the Secretary to report to the House Committee on Merchant Marine and Fisheries and the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation on the adequacy of civil penalties for violations of laws governing the operation of tank vessels by individuals under the influence of alcohol and any proposed changes to such laws. Title III: Environmental Monitoring and Research and Development in Prince William Sound - Requires the Under Secretary for Oceans and Atmosphere of the Department of Commerce to expend at least $5,000,000 annually out of amounts available for FY 1990 through 1992 to conduct living marine resource damage assessments and to monitor the environmental effects on such resources in Arctic waters due to the Exxon Valdez oil spill in the Sound. Directs the Secretary of Commerce, whenever possible, to recover such sums from the owner or operator of the Exxon Valdez. Requires such sums to be credited to the appropriations of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1990 to: (1) the Coast Guard to conduct research on and develop techniques and systems to respond to oil spills in Arctic waters; and (2) the Maritime Administration to conduct technical and program studies on the safety of tank vessels operating in such waters. Title IV: Plans and Recommendations - Directs the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating to report to the House Committee on Merchant Marine and Fisheries and the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation on: (1) actions taken by the Secretary to correct inadequacies of existing contingency plans for the Sound; (2) a list of oil pollution exercises conducted in the Port of Valdez and the Sound during the operation of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline; and (3) recommendations for changes in existing plans or laws to provide prompt response to oil spills and any other matters the Secretary considers important regarding oil spills in the Sound.

Environmental Research, Development, and Demonstration Authorization Act of 1989

United States · United States Congress · 27 April 1989

Environmental Research, Development, and Demonstration Authorization Act of 1989 - Authorizes appropriations to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for FY 1990 and 1991 for research, development, and demonstration activities authorized under: (1) the Clean Air Act; (2) the Federal Water Pollution Control Act; (3) the Safe Drinking Water Act; (4) the Solid Waste Disposal Act; (5) the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA); (6) the Public Health Service Act (radiation activities); (7) interdisciplinary activities provisions; (8) the Toxic Substances Control Act; and (9) energy research. Authorizes appropriations to the Administrator of the EPA for FY 1990 and 1991 for program management and support related to environmental research and development.

To amend the provisions of the Toxic Substances Control Act relating to asbestos in the Nation's schools by extending for one year the deadline for local educational agencies to submit asbestos management plans to State Governors and to begin implementation of those plans.

United States · United States Congress · 27 April 1989

Amends the Toxic Substances Control Act to extend the deadlines to: (1) May 1, 1990, for the submission of asbestos management plans by local educational agencies; (2) December 31, 1989, for requests for deferral of such submissions; and (3) July 9, 1990, for the implementation of such plans, upon approval of a deferral request.

Plastic Container Identification Act of 1989

United States · United States Congress · 27 April 1989

Plastic Container Identification Act of 1989 - Prescribes labeling requirements for plastic containers in interstate commerce to indicate the type of plastic resin used to produce the container. Imposes criminal penalties for violations.

Antrag auf Herbeirufung des Bundesministers des Innern und des Bundesministers für Umwelt, Naturschutz und Reaktorsicherheit (G-SIG: 11002346)

Germany · German Bundestag · 27 April 1989

To direct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to establish a demonstration program for installation of sewer and water supply facilities for certain colonias in the State of Texas and to establish a revolving loan fund to enable residents of such colonias to connect their residences to such facilities, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 26 April 1989

Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to make grants to specified Texas counties covering all the costs of constructing sewage and water supply facilities for certain colonias. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1990 and 1991. Requires the Administrator to make a grant to each of such counties for the establishment of revolving loan funds that enable residents of such colonias to install plumbing in their homes and have their homes connected to sewer facilities and drinking water supplies. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1990 and beyond. Requires the Administrator to prepare and transmit periodic reports on this Act's programs.

Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Amendments of 1989

United States · United States Congress · 26 April 1989

Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Amendments of 1989 - Amends the Toxic Substances Control Act to prohibit persons from having a financial interest in both the contractor who prepares a school asbestos plan and the contractor who implements such plan. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to promulgate regulations concerning air monitoring for asbestos to require that: (1) such monitoring be based on electron microscopy with a certain analytical sensitivity; (2) such monitoring be conducted in a manner most likely to detect asbestos; and (3) no person may have a financial interest in both the monitoring contractor and the contractor performing the response action. Requires the model school asbestos contractor accreditation plan for States to include a State-approved contractor training course and require that those who have passed the accreditation exam engage in supervised work experience before achieving accreditation. Directs the Administrator and the States to establish procedures for terminating accreditation. Requires the Administrator to review and report to the Congress on procedures in effect in some States to expedite accreditation reciprocity and the need and feasibility of developing a model procedure. Authorizes the Administrator to distribute an advisory model to States. Directs the Administrator to: (1) develop and implement a plan for conducting random, on-site school inspections to ensure that asbestos response actions are carried out in a manner that protects human health and the environment; (2) promulgate regulations to require school asbestos contractors to provide assurances of financial responsibility for all liabilities resulting from their work; and (3) promulgate regulations to delineate the division of responsibility between the EPA and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration for worker safety under the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response program. Authorizes school employees who are directed to conduct emergency repairs or operations and maintenance activities which may involve asbestos to refuse to conduct such activities unless they are provided with proper equipment and training and allowed to follow safe work practices. Directs the Administrator to promulgate regulations requiring owners of Federal, State, and commercial buildings to conduct asbestos inspections and, if asbestos is present, develop and implement asbestos management plans for such buildings. Sets deadlines for the implementation and completion of such activities. Provides for notification of the building occupants and the State Governor or Administrator, as appropriate, prior to undertaking such activities. Imposes civil monetary penalties against building owners who violate such regulations. Directs the Administrator to develop and report to the Congress on a system for monitoring asbestos-containing material removed from schools to assure that it is transported and disposed of in a manner protective of human health and the environment. Establishes an Asbestos Abatement Scientific Commission to assess available asbestos response actions for their effectiveness and appropriateness in protecting human health and the environment. Sets forth reporting requirements.

To amend the Solid Waste Disposal Act to improve compliance by Federal facilities with the requirements of subtitle C of that Act.

United States · United States Congress · 26 April 1989

Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to direct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to appoint a Special Environmental Counsel as an independent counsel to enforce compliance with such Act and other environmental laws concerning hazardous waste management at Federal facilities. Empowers the Counsel to issue orders, bring civil actions, and collect civil penalties. Requires the President to request funds for compliance with such orders in the annual budget submission if such funds are not otherwise available. Authorizes appropriations.

Plastic Container Labeling Act of 1989

United States · United States Congress · 26 April 1989

Plastic Container Labeling Act of 1989 - Prescribes labeling requirements for plastic containers in interstate commerce to indicate the type of plastic resin used to produce the container. Imposes criminal penalties for violations. Preempts any less stringent inconsistent State law.

Expressing the sense of the House regarding the critical need to include the use of alternative fuels such as ethanol, produced from our abundant stocks of surplus grain, methanol, which can be produced from our vast coal reserves, and compressed natural gas which can be produced from abundant gas reserves in air pollution control strategies required by the Federal Environmental Protection Agency to achieve compliance with the Clean Air Act.

United States · United States Congress · 26 April 1989

Expresses the sense of the House that the Environmental Protection Agency should strongly encourage nonattainment cities to include in their State Implementation Plans, as cost effective and preferred pollution control strategies in meeting Clean Air Act standards, the required use of ethanol blended and other oxygenated fuels in carbon monoxide nonattainment areas, neat alcohol fuels in ozone nonattainment areas, and compressed natural gas in both carbon monoxide and ozone nonattainment areas.

Befragung der Bundesregierung (G-SIG: 11002335)

Germany · German Bundestag · 26 April 1989

To prohibit the disposal of solid waste in any State other than the State in which the waste was generated.

United States · United States Congress · 25 April 1989

Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to prohibit the disposal of solid waste in excess of 100 pounds in any State or political subdivision other than the State in which the waste was generated, unless the State or subdivision has consented to the disposal.

To amend the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 to limit the liability under that Act of commercial lending institutions acquiring facilities through foreclosure or similar means and corporate fiduciaries administering estates or trusts.

United States · United States Congress · 25 April 1989

Amends the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 to provide that the term "owner or operator" does not include: (1) commercial lending institutions (banks, savings and loan associations, and trust companies) which acquire property to realize a security interest; and (2) a corporate fiduciary with legal title to property in order to administer an estate or trust.

Haltung der Bundesregierung zur Wiederaufarbeitungsanlage in Wackersdorf (G-SIG: 11002276)

Germany · German Bundestag · 20 April 1989

Aussprache auf Verlangen der Fraktion der SPD, Unabhängig von einer Fragestunde

Über den Antrag betr. Sofortiges Moratorium für die Freisetzung genetisch veränderter Organismen in die Umwelt (G-SIG: 11002278)

Germany · German Bundestag · 20 April 1989

Bundesdeutsche Beteiligung am weltweiten Uranabbau und Uranhandel Menschen und Landrechte der Betroffenen (G-SIG: 11002396)

Germany · German Bundestag · 20 April 1989

Weltweiter Uranabbau, Beteiligung deutscher Unternehmen insbesondere in Kanada, Südafrika und Namibia, Bedarf der Energieversorgungsunternehmen und des Militärs, Zusammenarbeit mit der französischen Firma COGEMA, Uranabbau in den COMECON-Ländern, Uranhandel und -lagerung, Exploration, radioaktive Verseuchung von Grundwasser und Luft, gesicherte Endlagerung von Abraum, Auswirkungen auf die Umwelt und die Gesundheit von Lebewesen, Wahrung der Menschen-, Arbeits- und Landrechte der betroffenen einheimischen Bevölkerung

Puget Sound Tanker Safety Act of 1989

United States · United States Congress · 19 April 1989

Puget Sound Tanker Safety Act of 1989 - Requires certain new oil tankers to have a double hull on their sides and bottoms throughout their cargo length. Directs the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating to: (1) enter into discussions with the International Maritime Organization on requiring additional safety standards for tankers operating in environmentally sensitive areas; (2) submit reports to specified committees of the Congress regarding recent oil spills in Puget Sound and safety measures such as double hulls and double bottoms on barges, additional safety lines between towing vessels, and limits on the size of individual tanks within tankers; (3) issue a final rule requiring certain oil tank vessels carrying or transferring oil in Puget Sound to prepare an individualized spill prevention and countermeasure plan; (4) issue a final rule listing the equipment that must be carried by vessels to carry out the plan; and (5) implement regulations providing for annual inspection of vessels covered by provisions of this Act relating to oil tankers in Puget Sound. Directs the Secretary to issue a final rule requiring owners or operators of certain oil tank vessels carrying or transferring oil in Puget Sound, and owners or operators of oil-producing, refining, or transportation facilities that reasonably could be expected to spill oil into Puget Sound or adjoining shorelines, to submit to the Secretary for approval a contingency plan for the prevention, containment, and cleanup of oil spills. Authorizes the owner or operator of a vessel or facility to rely on his participation in a cooperative effort with other owners or operators who are subject to the same provisions in developing the contingency plans. Sets forth plan approval criteria. Allows the Secretary to enter into a cooperative agreement with the State of Washington to delegate contingency plan approval to that State. Directs the Secretary to publish guidelines for the determination of the maximum probable spill from a vessel or facility. Directs the Secretary to annually: (1) publish a description of the contingency plans and an inventory of available equipment; and (2) conduct practice drills of the contingency plans and publish a report on the drills. Provides for in rem liability and for civil and criminal penalties for violating this Act or a regulation prescribed under it.

A resolution to recognize the Patuxent River as an appropriate demonstration site for national water quality management.

United States · United States Congress · 19 April 1989

Recognizes the Patuxent River as a national demonstration river and declares that it is an appropriate site for water quality demonstration projects. Declares that: (1) Federal agencies responsible for the administration of such projects should coordinate activities with State and local governments and regional agencies to facilitate the achievement of water quality goals for the Patuxent River; and (2) the Environmental Protection Agency should ensure that commitments to restore the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries are fulfilled in the most cost-effective manner by demonstrating the effectiveness of water quality strategies in the Patuxent River.

Toxics Release Prevention Act of 1989

United States · United States Congress · 18 April 1989

Toxics Release Prevention Act of 1989 - Amends the Clean Air Act to revise provisions concerning national emissions standards for hazardous air pollutants. Requires the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to include on the list of such pollutants each pollutant listed in committee print 101-XX published by the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works. Directs the Administrator to review and revise such list at least every five years by adding pollutants which present a threat of adverse human health or environmental effects. Provides that no substance or activity regulated under part B of such Act shall be subject to regulation solely due to adverse environmental effects. Permits others to petition for additions to or deletions from such list. Requires the presentation of adequate data concerning health or environmental effects for the addition or deletion of any substance to or from such list. Directs the Administrator to list categories of major sources of hazardous air pollutants and establish a minimum emissions rate for each pollutant emitted by such sources. Limits the minimum annual emissions rate to ten metric tons for any one hazardous air pollutant or 25 metric tons for any combination of such pollutants. Authorizes the Administrator to establish an annual minimum emissions rate of more than ten metric tons for any category and pollutant, provided that a certain health threshold will not be exceeded and no adverse environmental effects will occur. Requires emission standards for such sources to require the maximum degree of reductions that the Administrator determines is achievable. Prohibits emission standards for new sources from being less stringent than those for existing sources in the same category. Permits emissions standards for existing sources to be less stringent than standards for new sources if the Administrator determines that the level of control applicable to new sources is technically or economically infeasible for existing sources. Directs the Administrator to review such standards at least every seven years. Requires the Administrator to establish such standards within: (1) 24 months of this Act's enactment for sources of specified pollutants; and (2) three, five, or ten years of this Act's enactment, based on the quantity of the pollutant and the risk of exposure. Requires standards for all categories to be promulgated within ten years of this Act's enactment. Directs the Administrator, within three years after the initial promulgation of such standards, to evaluate the risks to human health and the environment from emissions remaining after the application of such standards. Requires the revision of such standards if the Administrator determines that such emissions present a significant risk of adverse human health or environmental effects. Directs the Administrator to establish additional emissions regulations for categories of sources of carcinogens or for pollutants for which standards do not reduce emissions to a level at or below the threshold for adverse health effects. Prohibits any consideration of cost, cost-effectiveness, economic, or energy factors or technological feasibility to determine the appropriate level of such standards. Authorizes the Administrator to promulgate design, equipment, work practice, or operational standards for sources under this Act. Requires the Administrator to promulgate such standards when it is infeasible to prescribe or enforce an emission standard for a category of hazardous air pollutants. Permits the use of an alternative means of emission limitations if such alternative achieves a reduction equivalent to that achieved under this Act's requirements. Authorizes the Administrator or a State with an approved program to require owners or operators of facilities which emit hazardous air pollutants to: (1) monitor the presence of such pollutant in the source emissions and ambient air; (2) install and maintain leak detection systems; and (3) keep records and report on the results of such monitoring and leak detection. Requires work practice emissions standards to include, where appropriate, leak prevention, detection, and correction requirements. Sets forth a compliance schedule for emissions standards under this Act. Requires compliance by existing sources within three years of the effective date of such standards. Grants an extension of up to two additional years for such sources under specified conditions. Authorizes the Administrator or a State with an approved program to: (1) exempt existing sources from certain carcinogen emissions standards under specified conditions; and (2) require owners or operators of such sources to conduct research and development on improved technology or management practices as a condition for such temporary exemption or permit renewal. Provides an opportunity for public comment on any proposed exemption. Authorizes the President to exempt any source from emissions standards for up to two years if the technology to implement such standards is unavailable and the operation of such source is required for national security. Authorizes extensions of such exemptions for additional two-year periods. Authorizes the Administrator to exempt any existing major listed source from applicable emissions standards upon a showing that such source has achieved a voluntary emissions reduction of at least 90 percent by December 31, 1992. Waives emissions requirements for sources where emissions are in de minimis amounts and do not pose a risk of adverse human health or environmental effects and where control of such pollutant would require installation of additional and separate control technologies. Makes it unlawful to construct a new source or emit any pollutant subject to standards under this Act, except in compliance with a permit issued by the Administrator or an approved State. Outlines the requirements of the permit program. Limits State permits to five-year periods. Authorizes the issuance of a temporary permit if a source owner or operator certifies that the source will comply with applicable standards. Requires the Administrator or a State, within six months of the issuance of a temporary permit, to review the operations of such source to determine whether a full permit should be issued. Sets forth administrative provisions regarding the issuance of permits. Requires the Administrator to conduct an urban pollution research program to include: (1) ambient monitoring for a range of hazardous air pollutants in a number of urban areas; (2) analysis to characterize the area sources of such pollution and the health risks posed by such pollutants; and (3) consideration of factors which elevate such health risks. Directs States receiving grants for air pollution planning and control which contain a metropolitan area with over 250,000 persons to commence a monitoring program in each such area to measure the ambient concentration of hazardous air pollutants. Requires Governors of such States to report biennially to the Administrator on the results of such monitoring and to make such information available to the public. Requires the Administrator to transmit to the Congress a comprehensive strategy to control hazardous air pollutants released by sources in urban areas. Outlines the requirements of such strategy, including: (1) a schedule for specific actions to reduce emissions of particular hazardous air pollutants; and (2) the identification of research needs in monitoring or pollution control techniques and recommendations for changes in law to further the goals of such strategy. Requires the Administrator to set aside at least ten percent of funds available for grants under this section to support State strategies to reduce risk from source emissions in urban areas. Directs the Administrator, at intervals no later than eight and ten years after this Act's enactment, to report to the Congress on actions taken to reduce risks to public health posed by pollutants from area sources. Requires such report to identify metropolitan areas which continue to experience high risks as the result of emissions from such sources. Directs the Administrator to report to the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works and the House Committee on Energy and Commerce on health impacts of mobile source benzene emissions and fuel and vehicle-based control strategies. Authorizes States to develop and submit to the Administrator for approval programs for the control of emissions of hazardous air pollutants or for the prevention and mitigation of accidental releases of such pollutants. Permits the Administrator's enforcement authorities to be transferred to a State. Requires the Administrator to publish guidance for use in program development. Requires such guidance to include standards for emissions control as well as registration of facilities handling such pollutants in amounts greater than the threshold quantity. Directs the Administrator to establish and maintain an air toxics clearinghouse, control technology center, and risk information center to provide technical assistance and information to States on emissions reduction. Authorizes the Administrator to make grants to States for program development. Requires the Administrator to withdraw approval of a program if it is determined that the State is not administering or enforcing such program. Directs the Administrator to: (1) assess the hazards to public health and the environment resulting from emissions of hydrogen sulfide associated with the extraction of oil and natural gas resources; (2) report the results of such assessment, together with recommendations, to the Congress; and (3) develop and implement a control strategy for such emissions. Requires the Administrator to: (1) review risk assessment methods used by EPA to determine the carcinogenic risks associated with exposure to hazardous air pollutants and source categories; and (2) report the results of such review to the Congress. Directs the Administrator to report annually to the Congress on measures taken by the EPA and States to implement the requirements of this Act. Requires the Administrator to list at least 50 substances which could be released suddenly in concentrations that may cause adverse human health effects. Directs the Administrator to update such list at least every five years. Requires owners and operators of facilities at which such substances are present in amounts greater than a threshold quantity to conduct hazard assessments for each substance present at the facility. Directs the Administrator to publish guidance for the preparation of such assessments. Requires such assessments to include an identification of potential release sources and exposures and to be biennially updated. Directs the Administrator, to the extent practicable, to: (1) coordinate assessment requirements with requirements imposed by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, including joint promulgation of regulations; and (2) facilitate compliance with such requirements by designing generic hazard identification and assessment tools for owners and operators of hazardous substance facilities. Makes such assessments available to the Administrator, States, the Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board, local emergency planning entities and, subject to conditions of the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act of 1986, the public. Requires the Administrator to establish a long-term research program to develop and disseminate information on improved hazard assessment methods and techniques. Establishes within EPA a Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board to investigate and report on accidental chemical releases, make recommendations on the safety of chemical production, handling, and storage, and promulgate requirements for the reporting of such releases. Requires the Board to enter into a memorandum of understanding with the National Transportation Safety Board to assure coordination of functions and limit duplication of activities. Authorizes the Board to conduct research and studies with respect to accidental, sudden releases of hazardous substances. Requires the Board to publish a report, along with recommendations, on the use of hazard assessments in preventing and minimizing such releases. Directs the Administrator to set forth reasons for any refusal to implement a recommendation of the Board. Authorizes the Board to hold hearings, secure written reports from any person handling chemicals, and conduct inspections of any facility where an accidental release has occurred. Requires information obtained by the Board, unless it is likely to cause substantial harm to a person's competitive position, to be made available to the public. Directs the Board to report annually to the President and the Congress on accidental releases, recommendations, and priorities for research and investigations. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1990 through 1994. Authorizes the Administrator to promulgate release prevention, detection, and correction requirements, including requirements for monitoring, recordkeeping, and design, equipment, and operational practices, for extremely hazardous pollutant facilities. Authorizes the Administrator to secure such relief as may be necessary when determined that an actual or threatened release of an extremely hazardous substance poses an imminent and substantial danger to the public health or welfare or the environment. Permits the Administrator to issue orders to protect human health, welfare, or the environment. Establishes daily penalties for violations of such orders. Directs the Administrator to publish guidance for the coordination of such authority with the relevant authorities under other Federal environmental laws. Requires the President to: (1) review release prevention, mitigation, and response authorities of various Federal agencies and coordinate agency responsibilities to assure efficient implementation of such authorities and identify any deficiencies in authority or resources; and (2) report to the Congress on such activities, along with recommendations for changes in law. Authorizes appropriations. Increases and expands the scope of penalties under the Clean Air Act. Repeals certain provisions of such Act concerning the revision of stationary source regulations.

Tropical Forestry Initiative Act

United States · United States Congress · 18 April 1989

Tropical Forestry Initiative Act - Requires the Secretary of Agriculture to conduct a research program that focuses on methods to slow or reverse tropical deforestation. Directs the Secretary to enter into a memorandum of understanding with the Secretary of the Interior setting forth the methods by which the Secretary of the Interior will assist in accomplishing the purposes of this Act. Requires the President's proposed budget to the Congress to specifically identify funds to be spent on such research. Authorizes and directs the Secretary to administer an Institute of Tropical Forestry in Puerto Rico to: (1) conduct long-term research that includes the designation and management of units that protect tropical forests, the relationship between the atmosphere and such forests, sustainable economic development and regeneration and restoration of such forests, and the effects of deforestation on various environmental and economic factors; and (2) provide assistance that includes technology transfer from such research, the training of foreign researchers, and the promotion of research by other institutions. Authorizes and directs the Secretary to manage the Caribbean National Forest (also known as the Luquillo Experimental Forest) as a model of tropical forest management for use in international outreach, study, training, and research. Requires the Secretary to construct the necessary training and educational facilities in such forest. Authorizes appropriations.

To amend the Clean Air Act to control emissions of dioxin from certain resource recovery plants and municipal waste incinerators.

United States · United States Congress · 18 April 1989

Amends the Clean Air Act to establish standards for emissions of dioxins from new or modified municipal waste combustion units. Requires the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to provide for the monitoring of such emissions. Authorizes States to adopt more stringent standards. Authorizes the Administrator to promulgate standards for emissions of other air pollutants from municipal waste combustion units.

To amend the Clean Air Act to require incinerators located in nonattainment areas to periodically reduce emissions.

United States · United States Congress · 18 April 1989

Amends the Clean Air Act to limit permits issued after 1989 to municipal solid waste incinerators in nonattainment areas to periods of five years. Authorizes the permitting agency to periodically reissue permits for successive terms not to exceed five years. Sets forth requirements for reissued permits.

North American Wetlands Conservation Act

United States · United States Congress · 17 April 1989

North American Wetlands Conservation Act - Establishes a North American Wetlands Conservation Commission. Sets forth elements to be considered by the Commission in making recommendations for wetlands conservation projects. Requires the Commission to submit annual descriptions to the Secretary of the Interior and the appropriate congressional committees of projects recommended for Federal funding. Directs the Secretary to approve such projects for funding unless such projects should not have been recommended based on the consideration factors. Requires the Secretary to carry out such projects with funding available under this Act and the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act. Requires lands, waters, or other interests acquired by the Secretary to carry out such projects to be included in the National Wildlife Refuge System, except as otherwise provided in this Act. Authorizes the Secretary to convey to States or public or private agencies approved by States any real property interest acquired, managed, or restored with funding provided by this Act, except that no such interest shall, without the Secretary's approval, be converted for uses other than conservation of migratory birds, other fish and wildlife, and the wetland ecosystems on which such species depend. Requires the Secretary to approve such conversion only if the Secretary finds it in accordance with the North American Waterfowl Management Plan (Plan) signed by Canada and the United States in 1986 and only upon such conditions deemed necessary to assure the substitution of comparable wetland ecosystems or other habitats for migratory birds and other fish and wildlife species. Directs the Secretary to grant funds to public and private entities for carrying out wetlands conservation projects in Canada and Mexico. Subjects the granting of such funds to the condition that property interests acquired, managed, or restored with such funds will be administered for the long-term conservation and management of fish and wildlife and will provide for public access and use. Amends the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act to require the Secretary of the Treasury to invest in interest-bearing obligations such portion of the wildlife restoration fund not required for the current year's withdrawals. Sets forth authorized investment activities and the required use of interest held on obligations in such fund. Excludes such interest from revenues to be deducted for administrative expenses. Authorizes the sums of certain penalties or fines received for violations of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act to be appropriated to the Department of the Interior for allocations of funds under this Act. Authorizes additional appropriations. Allocates funds made available under this Act and the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act. Limits the Federal contribution to wetlands conservation projects to 75 percent for projects in Canada and Mexico and 50 percent of the total cost for projects in the United States. Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) make progress payments to wetlands conservation projects; and (2) enter into agreements to make payments on initial portions of such projects, subject to the availability of Federal funds. Prohibits the use of moneys allocated under this Act for acquiring lands for inclusion in the National Wildlife Refuge System, except as provided, unless there is appropriated under the Refuge Revenue Sharing Act for such fiscal year an amount equal to the difference between the total amount of net receipts and the aggregate amount of payments to be made to counties. Requires the head of each Federal agency responsible for acquiring, managing, or disposing of Federal lands and waters to cooperate with the Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to restore, protect, and enhance the wetland ecosystems and other habitats for migratory birds, fish, and wildlife within such lands and waters. Directs such agencies, in the consideration of land disposal alternatives, to give priority to transfers of property for conservation purposes. Requires the Secretary to report biennially to the appropriate congressional committees on: (1) the estimated number of wetland acres and habitats that were restored, protected, or enhanced for migratory birds during such two-year period; and (2) trends in the population size and distribution of North American migratory birds. Directs the Secretary to report annually to such committees on the status of wetlands conservation projects and expenditures. Requires the Secretary, in 1991 and quinquennially thereafter, to revise the Plan with appropriate Canadian and Mexican officials. Prohibits funds made available under this Act and the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act from being used for fish and wildlife mitigation purposes under the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act or the Water Resources Development Act of 1986.

To make appropriations for the Environmental Protection Agency for grants to States for radon assessment and mitigation and for conducting a study to determine the extent of radon contamination in school buildings.

United States · United States Congress · 17 April 1989

Authorizes appropriations to the Environmental Protection Agency for FY 1990 for: (1) grants to States under the Toxic Substances Control Act for radon assessment and mitigation; and (2) a study under such Act to determine the extent of radon contamination in school buildings.

A bill to amend the Clean Air Act to provide that the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency shall have authority to regulate air pollution on and over the Outer Continental Shelf.

United States · United States Congress · 13 April 1989

Amends the Clean Air Act to direct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to provide that any source of air pollution resulting from activities in or on the waters above or on the Outer Continental Shelf is subject to the requirements of the Clean Air Act applicable to the adjacent State or local jurisdiction.

Tank Spill Prevention Act of 1989

United States · United States Congress · 13 April 1989

Tank Spill Prevention Act of 1989 - Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to require the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to promulgate regulations applicable to above-ground storage tanks which include requirements that tank owners and operators adopt spill and leak prevention plans and construct and maintain spill and leak prevention systems. Requires that spill and leak prevention systems: (1) be capable of catching and holding 110 percent of the tank's capacity; and (2) be reviewed by the tank's owner or operator and a qualified registered professional engineer and certified as fail safe and reflective of good engineering practices. Requires that spill and leak prevention plans: (1) be designed specifically for each facility; (2) assure that adequate procedures, equipment, and trained personnel are available to control and clean up any release of a regulated substance; (3) include tank testing before beginning operations and periodically thereafter; (4) be certified by a qualified registered professional engineer as reflective of good engineering practices; (5) be updated periodically as new spill control and clean-up technology is developed; and (6) include procedures for the prompt notification of the National Response Center and the nearest local government. Authorizes the Administrator to require a tank owner or operator to undertake corrective action in response to any release of a regulated substance from the tank when such action will be done properly and promptly. Permits the Administrator, upon notification of a release, to prohibit operations in a facility until such action has been taken. Authorizes the Administrator to take corrective action where the owner or operator fails to take prompt and effective action and human health and the environment are endangered. Requires tank owners or operators to amend their spill and leak plans and systems whenever a major modification in the design, construction, operation, or maintenance of the tank materially affects the tank's potential to release substances. Prohibits a tank's use until such amended plan and system have been certified by an engineer and approved by the Administrator. Permits the establishment of financial responsibility for a spill by any means the Administrator deems appropriate. Authorizes the assertion of claims against guarantors providing evidence of financial responsibility for claims against insolvent owners or operators of tanks. Limits guarantor liability to the aggregate amount which the guarantor has provided as evidence of financial responsibility to the owner or operator. Authorizes the Administrator to establish coverage requirements which may vary among particular classes or categories of above-ground storage tanks. Authorizes a State to submit for the Administrator's review and approval a program under which such State would assume primary responsibility for the enforcement of regulations pertaining to above-ground storage tanks. Requires that State regulation and enforcement procedures be at least as stringent as those used by the Administrator. Requires the Administrator to monitor State programs for compliance with this Act's requirements. Directs the Administrator to impose a fee on all above-ground storage tanks which shall be deposited in a Tank Spill Enforcement Fund for use in providing grants to States for administering State programs. Authorizes the Administrator to issue compliance orders or commence civil actions against violators of this Act's requirements, but requires that prior notification be given to States operating their own program. Imposes criminal and civil monetary penalties for violations of this Act's requirements. Makes tank owners and operators liable for the Administrator's corrective action costs and damages arising out of or directly resulting from the unauthorized release of a regulated substance from the tank. Makes third parties liable when owners or operators can establish that the costs and damages were caused solely by third parties. Sets forth defenses to liability. Authorizes the Administrator to establish limits on total liability except where: (1) the incident was proximately caused by the willful misconduct or gross negligence of the tank owner or operator, or by the violation of applicable Federal safety, construction, or operating regulations; or (2) the tank owner or operator fails to report an incident where required by law to do so and has reason to know of such incident or fails to cooperate and assist with removal activities. Provides for the appointment of Federal and State trustees who shall act on behalf of the public to recover damages for injuries and losses to natural resources. Gives a trustee's assessment of such damages the status of a rebuttable presumption in administrative and judicial proceedings. Requires that recovered sums be used to restore or replace natural resources. Allows tank owners or operators to recover removal costs and damages to which a defense or liability limitation is applicable, provided such claim is presented within a specified period of time. Prohibits indemnification agreements from effectively transferring liability under this Act.

To prohibit the disposal of solid waste in any State other than the State in which the waste was generated.

United States · United States Congress · 13 April 1989

Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to prohibit the disposal of solid waste in excess of 100 pounds in any State or political subdivision other than the State in which the waste was generated, unless the State or subdivision has consented to the disposal.

To require State assurances under section 104(c)(9) of Superfund to include plans and funding for emergency response teams, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 13 April 1989

Amends the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 to provide that no State assurance regarding responses to releases of hazardous substances shall be deemed adequate unless such State has provided plans and funding for at least one emergency response team located within ten miles of each treatment or disposal facility relied upon in such assurance.

Diane Kay Morales, of Texas, to be an Assistant Secretary of Energy (Environment, Safety and Health), vice Ernest C. Baynard, III, resigned.

United States · United States Senate · 12 April 1989

A joint resolution to establish that it is the policy of the United States to encourage and support conservation efforts initiated by Brazil to protect the Amazon Forest and that the United States should redouble its efforts to reduce its pollution of the global environment.

United States · United States Congress · 12 April 1989

Declares that it is the policy of the United States to recognize Brazil's sovereign authority in the Amazon and that the United States should adopt a policy to encourage and support conservation efforts initiated by Brazil to protect the Amazon Forest. Declares that the United States should redouble its efforts to address development within its own borders in an environmentally sound and sustainable manner.

Recycling Act

United States · United States Congress · 12 April 1989

Recycling Act - Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to require all paper and paper products procured by Federal and State agencies and certain businesses under contract with Federal agencies to be composed of the highest percentage practicable of recovered materials. Requires the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to prepare guidelines for the implementation of such requirement. Requires each procuring agency that enters into a construction contract to give preference to the contractor that proposes to use the highest percentage of recovered materials in carrying out such contract, provided that such materials are of a reasonable price. Directs the Administrator to prepare guidelines to include minimum content standards for at least five items used in construction contracts that can be produced with recovered materials. Requires the Administrator to issue annual guidelines that specify standards for five additional items that may or may not be used in such contracts. Requires each Federal agency with office facilities of more than 35 office workers to carry out a recovery program of newsprint and corrugated and high-grade paper. Requires such materials to be separated at the source of generation, separately collected, sold for the purpose of recycling or used by the Government. Authorizes funds received from such sales to be retained by the agency that generated the sold item. Prohibits any State or municipality from receiving any form of Federal assistance in connection with facilities for the processing, separation, resource recovery, or reduction of solid waste unless the Administrator certifies that such State or municipality has implemented and met the targets for a program: (1) for the collection, separation, and processing of recyclable materials which provides for graduated increases in the amount of waste stream to be made available to markets for recovered materials; and (2) that requires preferences for the procurement of goods containing recovered materials. Sets forth additional requirements for State solid waste disposal plans, including: (1) the separation, collection, and recycling of tires, lead-acid batteries, and major household appliances; and (2) the separation, collection, and safe disposal of household hazardous wastes. Authorizes the Administrator to provide low-interest loans or loan guarantees for constructing and operating facilities and equipment for the collection, separation, or processing of recyclable materials. Permits the Administrator to provide technical assistance and grants to State and local governments for recycling and waste reduction programs. Authorizes appropriations. Requires all paper and paper products, effective five years after this Act's enactment, to contain the minimum percentage of recovered materials specified by the Administrator under the Solid Waste Disposal Act. Extends the date by which the Secretary of Commerce is required to take actions regarding the development of markets for recovered materials. Requires the Secretary, no later than six months after this Act's enactment, to develop a program to promote the selling of recyclable solid waste from the United States in international markets. Requires manufacturers of plastic items or packaging to label such items to indicate the type of plastic used in such materials. Prohibits any plastic, effective one year after the promulgation of regulations regarding this section, from containing, or being manufactured in a process that uses, chlorofluorocarbons. Directs the EPA Inspector General to report annually to the Congress on compliance with this Act.

Municipal Solid Waste Reduction Act of 1989

United States · United States Congress · 12 April 1989

Municipal Solid Waste Reduction Act of 1989 - Requires the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to establish a waste reduction information clearinghouse in the EPA Office of Solid Waste. Makes such information available to the public. Directs the Administrator to implement a public education program about municipal solid waste reduction and the ways in which reduction can alleviate waste management and disposal problems. Requires the Administrator to publish lists of: (1) the 50 most toxic constituents of the municipal waste stream arising during the recycling, treatment, disposal, or other management of such waste stream; and (2) the 50 categories of waste that are the largest contributors by volume to such stream. Directs the Administrator, acting through the Assistant Administrator for the Office of Solid Waste, to initiate studies of five of the elements on each list. Outlines the requirements of such studies, including: (1) a determination of the risks to human health and the environment involved in managing such constituents or waste categories in the waste stream; (2) a determination of strategies for reducing the quantity or toxicity of such constituents or waste categories; and (3) an examination of the economic costs and benefits associated with such reduction. Requires the President to establish a commission to study methods for labeling products and packaging to help reduce waste. Requires such study to be submitted to the President and the Congress and to be made available to the public. Terminates the Commission after submission of the study. Directs the Administrator to implement a grant program for research and development on redesigning consumer products for the purpose of reducing the volume or toxicity of waste. Requires grant recipients to report to the Administrator on the use of such grants and the success in redesigning products. Limits the amount of each grant to $50,000. Prohibits the Administrator from obligating or spending more than $5,000,000 in a fiscal year for such program. Requires the head of each executive department to: (1) review purchases of goods to determine where substitute goods could be purchased to achieve waste reduction; (2) encourage waste reduction in the practices of the department; and (3) report annually to the Administrator on waste reduction activities. Directs the Administrator to report annually to the Congress on waste reduction activities in such departments.

Wetlands No Net Loss Act of 1989

United States · United States Congress · 10 April 1989

Wetlands No Net Loss Act of 1989 - Requires the Secretary of the Interior to designate a nonprofit organization as a Wetlands Preservation Trust if such organization: (1) is established for the purpose of acquiring ownership interests in wetlands, former wetlands, and related property and for restoring, creating, or preserving wetlands; and (2) meets, and submits an application in accordance with, the Secretary's requirements. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to create special rules for contributions of land to such Trusts. Applies the 50 percent limitation on charitable contribution deductions to contributions of wetlands to such Trusts. Permits a ten-year carryover for excess contributions. Extends the deadline for the exchange of property held for productive use or investment if such contributions are made as part of such exchanges. Permits the carryover of unused deductions on a taxpayer's last return if such taxpayer dies before the close of the last taxable year for which such deductions could have been allowed. Authorizes the Secretary, acting through the Office of Wetlands Identification and Preservation, to make grants to States from the Wetlands Preservation Account for the implementation of State Wetlands Conservation Plans. Outlines requirements of such Plans. Prohibits the Secretary from approving any Plan that: (1) excludes any area of State wetlands solely on the basis of that area being less than a minimum size; or (2) excludes from Plan administration areas of wetlands the preservation of which is significant for achieving the purposes of this Act. Amends the Fish and Wildlife Act of 1956 to require the Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to establish the Office of Wetlands Identification and Preservation within the Service. Requires the Director, acting through the Office, to: (1) identify all U.S. wetlands and associated uplands which are suitable for preservation; (2) produce and make available to the public maps of such lands; and (3) carry out title III of the Emergency Wetland Resources Act of 1986 (State and Federal Wetland Acquisition). Authorizes the Director, acting through the Office, to enter into agreements with private persons to carry out wetlands preservation. Permits such agreements to provide for: (1) the transfer of wetlands to Trusts; and (2) technical assistance to owners of wetlands who enter into such preservation agreements. Establishes the Wetlands Preservation Account. Requires at least 60 percent of Account funds to be available for grants to States. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to deposit into such Account amounts received in the form of: (1) criminal penalties for certain permit violations of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act; and (2) civil and administrative penalties under such Act. Directs the Secretary to transfer annually to the Account $300,000,000 from the Land and Water Conservation Fund. Authorizes appropriations. Requires the head of each executive agency to: (1) complete an inventory of all wetlands and associated uplands owned or managed by the agency; and (2) implement a plan for the protection of wetlands included in the inventory. Requires such agencies to submit such plans to the head of the Office and the Secretary of the Interior. Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to transfer the authority to issue permits for discharge of dredge and fill material from the Secretary of the Army to the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the Office. Revises provisions regarding reporting requirements. Repeals a provision requiring the submission of comments on permit applications. Prohibits the Secretary of the Army from authorizing any dredging of wetlands under the Rivers and Harbors Appropriations Act of 1899 without the prior approval of the Secretary of the Interior. Requires the Director of the Office of Technology Assessment to study and report to the Congress on: (1) incentives under Federal and State laws for the protection and management of wetlands; (2) potential modifications to existing Federal laws to improve their effectiveness in creating such incentives and to increase the permanence of such protection; and (3) ways in which the Federal Government may encourage State and local governments to create additional incentives for the protection and management of wetlands by private individuals.

To approve the designation of the Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuary, to disapprove a term of that designation, and to direct the Secretary of Commerce to revise regulations implementing that designation to prohibit certain activities in the Sanctuary.

United States · United States Congress · 10 April 1989

Declares that the Congress approves, with certain exceptions, the designation of the Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuary. Disapproves the designation of hydrocarbon (oil and gas) activities as activities which may be regulated within the Sanctuary. Directs the Secretary of Commerce to: (1) within 120 days, revise regulations to prohibit hydrocarbon activities in the Sanctuary; and (2) pending implementation of such revised regulations, prohibit such hydrocarbon activities.

Einsatz von Erfindungen im Umweltschutz (G-SIG: 11052092)

Germany · German Bundestag · 7 April 1989

Bericht der Bundesregierung an den Deutschen Bundestag über die Wirkungen des Wasch- und Reinigungsmittelgesetzes vom 19. Dezember 1986 (G-SIG: 11002390)

Germany · German Bundestag · 7 April 1989

Belastung des kommunalen Abwassers durch Wasch- und Reinigungsmittel aus Haushalt, Gewerbe und Industrie, der Oberflächengewässer sowie des Klärschlamms, Bewertung von Wasch- und Reinigungsmitteln, Schwerpunkte bei der Umsetzung des WRMG, Maßnahmen in anderen Bereichen (Länder, Bund/Länder-Gremien, Hauptausschuß Detergentien, Verbraucherorganisationen, Umweltverbände), künftige Aufgaben: Verbesserung der Verbraucherinformation, der Werbung und der Datenlage über die Umweltverträglichkeit, Erfolgskontrolle der freiwilligen Verpflichtungen der betroffenen Industrieverbände

Urging the President to sign and submit to the Senate for ratification the Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and Their Disposal, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 6 April 1989

Urges the President to: (1) sign and submit to the Senate for ratification the Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and Their Disposal; and (2) submit to the Congress proposed legislation to reform U.S. hazardous waste export laws and regulations.

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives in support of actions to eliminate preventable deaths and disabling illness, especially among children, through intensified international collaboration to attain the United Nations goals of Universal Childhood Immunization by 1990 and Health for All by the Year 2000, and through the convening of a World Summit on Children.

United States · United States Congress · 5 April 1989

Declares that: (1) it is the sense of the House of Representatives that child survival and development programs are to be commended; (2) the House of Representatives reaffirms its goal of improvement of the survival rates, health, and development of people in all countries and urges the President to adopt this as a major priority; (3) the President is urged to propose to the Secretary General of the United Nations that he establish an independent advisory commission with regard to programs in primary health care, nutrition, basic education, and environment by members of the Grand Alliance for Children; and (4) the House of Representatives endorses the call for a World Summit on Children as an opportunity to attain specified goals, including the goals of Universal Childhood Immunization by 1990 and Health for All by the year 2000.

Oil Pollution Liability and Compensation Act of 1989

United States · United States Congress · 4 April 1989

Oil Pollution Liability and Compensation Act of 1989 - Title I: Oil Pollution Liability and Compensation - Establishes the Oil Spill Compensation Fund. Makes vessel owners or operators of onshore or offshore facilities liable for removal costs and for economic or natural resource damages, including: (1) injury or loss of real or personal property or natural resources; (2) loss of use (including subsistence use) of natural resources; (3) loss or impairment of income, profits, or earning capacity; and (4) loss of Federal and State tax, royalty, rental, or net profits share revenue for up to one year. Establishes liability limits for: (1) owners and operators of tankers; (2) other vessel owners; (3) lessees and permittees of Outer Continental Shelf facilities; (4) deepwater port facility owners; and (5) other facility owners. Excludes interest (including prejudgment interest) from such limits. Authorizes the President to establish lower liability limits for other onshore or offshore facilities. Requires the periodic adjustment of liability limits to reflect increases in the Consumer Price Index. Makes the President (or the authorized representative of any State or foreign government) the trustee to act on behalf of the public to recover damages for injury to Federal, State, or foreign government natural resources. Requires the President, acting through the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, to promulgate regulations within two years of enactment of this Act for the assessment of damages for injury to natural resources resulting from an oil discharge. Requires that such regulations be reviewed and revised (if necessary) every two years. Makes the owner or operator of a vessel liable under: (1) this Act; (2) maritime tort law; and (3) the Clean Water Act. Directs the President to use the money in the Oil Spill Compensation Fund for specified removal costs and damages. Requires the President to publish regulations regarding implementation of the authority to obligate the Fund or enter into agreements. Authorizes States to obligate the Fund for a maximum of $250,000 per discharge or substantial threat of discharge of oil and to enter into agreements with the President for additional Fund monies. Provides that the Attorney General (upon request of the President) shall commence an action against the responsible foreign government or other responsible party to recover any costs paid from the Fund as a result of oil discharge or substantial threat of discharge from a foreign offshore unit. Requires the owner or operator of certain-size vessels and offshore facilities to establish financial responsibility sufficient to meet the maximum amount of liability to which such persons could be subjected under this Act. Provides for judicial review of regulations and actions under this Act. Grants State courts jurisdiction to hear cases under this Act, as well as under State law. Permits the States to impose additional liability or requirements regarding oil discharges within their borders. Retains the rights of the States to maintain a fund for oil pollution compensation. Authorizes States to enforce the financial responsibility requirements of this Act. Requires the President to consult with affected States regarding removal actions. Requires the President to report to the Congress within one year after enactment of this Act regarding a study on improved methods for oil discharge prevention in restricted waters. Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to direct (current law authorizes) the President to remove oil at any time unless the President finds that such removal will be done properly and promptly by the owner or operator of the vessel or facility. Title II: Conforming Amendments - Makes conforming amendments to the following Acts: (1) the Trans-Alaska Pipeline Authorization Act; (2) the Intervention on the High Seas Act; (3) the Clean Water Act; (4) the Deepwater Port Act; and (5) the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act. Amends the Trans-Alaska Pipeline Authorization Act to abolish the Trans-Alaska Pipeline Liability Fund. Replaces the Trans-Alaska Pipeline Liability Fund and the Deepwater Port Liability Fund with the Oil Spill Compensation Fund of this Act. Repeals the oil spill liability provisions of the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act Amendments of 1978 (thereby replacing the Offshore Oil Pollution Compensation Fund under that Act with the Oil Spill Compensation Fund established in this Act). Amends the Clean Water Act to: (1) require persons in charge of a vessel or onshore facility who have knowledge of an oil discharge to immediately notify the affected State; and (2) increase from one year to three years the prison term for failure to report such discharge.

A bill to amend the Clean Water Act to expand authority for penalties for discharges of oil and hazardous substances to provide for an assessment of oil spill contingency plans.

United States · United States Congress · 4 April 1989

Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to prescribe minimum penalties that may be assessed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for the discharge of oil or hazardous substances into U.S. waters. (Current law provides that such penalties shall not exceed such amounts.) Limits the penalties to specified amounts per barrel. Directs the EPA Administrator to report biennially to the Congress on the adequacy of the National Contingency Plan and any regulations concerning the discharge of oil.

A joint resolution to require the President to submit proposals to prevent, and disperse oil spills on the seas, coasts, and waterways of the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 4 April 1989

Requires the President to submit to the Congress proposals to prevent, contain, and disperse oil spills on U.S. seas, coasts, and inland waterways.

projet de loi autorisant l'approbation d'une convention relative à la conservation de la vie sauvage et du milieu naturel de l'Europe

France · Senate · 3 April 1989

projet de loi autorisant l'approbation d'une convention pour la protection, la gestion et la mise en valeur du milieu marin et des zones côtières de la région de l'Afrique orientale (ensemble une annexe) et de deux protocoles, l'un relatif aux zones protégées ainsi qu

France · Senate · 2 April 1989

Beschäftigungsprogramm für Langzeitarbeitslose im sozialen Bereich und im Umweltschutz (G-SIG: 11042222)

Germany · German Bundestag · 31 March 1989

Used Oil Recycling Act of 1989

United States · United States Congress · 23 March 1989

Used Oil Recycling Act of 1989 - Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to prohibit the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency from listing or identifying as a hazardous waste any: (1) recycled oil; (2) used oil transferred to a person who certifies that such oil will be rerefined, processed, or reclaimed for a beneficial purpose or stored less than 12 months prior to such transfer; and (3) used oil which has been removed from the engine of a light duty motor vehicle or household appliance by the owner, transferred to a service station dealer, and stored by the dealer for less than 12 months. Requires the Administrator to determine whether to list as a hazardous waste used oil which is a solid waste and does not satisfy the above-listed criteria. Directs the Administrator to establish management standards for the storage, testing, transportation, treatment, exportation and importation, and processing of used oil. Requires such standards to be designed to protect human health and the environment by encouraging and expanding reliance on recycling of used oil. Exempts generators of used oil from recordkeeping or reporting requirements if such generators: (1) enter into an agreement for delivery of such oil to a recycling facility whose owner or operator certifies compliance with such standards or recycles such oil; (2) do not mix the oil with any hazardous wastes; and (3) maintain necessary records relating to the oil. Prohibits mixing used oil with any hazardous waste identified under such Act except where: (1) such mixing involves an identified hazardous waste and the resulting mixture does not exhibit a characteristic identified in such Act; and (2) the used oil mixture is burned to recover useful energy such that protection of human health and the environment is assured. Deems owners or operators of facilities which process used oil for fuel to have permits for recycling activities if in compliance with management standards. Directs the Administrator to conduct inspections of such facilities to determine compliance with such standards. Requires the Administrator to implement educational programs to inform the public about the environmental and safety hazards associated with improper handling of used oil and the benefits of used oil recycling. Authorizes appropriations. Directs the Administrator to promulgate regulations concerning the procurement of used oil fuel by Federal agencies subject to the requirements of the Solid Waste Disposal Act.

National Fish and Wildlife Enhancement Act of 1989

United States · United States Congress · 23 March 1989

Title I: Findings and Definitions - National Fish and Wildlife Enhancement Act of 1989 - Sets forth congressional findings and definitions. Title II: Oil and Gas Leasing on National Wildlife Refuges - Mandates that all oil and gas leasing receipts (including receipts from the sale of sand and gravel) be deposited into the Refuge Revenue Sharing Fund. Exempts oil and gas leases on Alaskan units of the National Wildlife Refuge System from such mandate (other than the Arctic and Teshekpuk-Utukok National Refuges). Amends the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (ANILCA) to repeal, with the commencement of the first coastal plain lease sale, the proscription against oil and gas leasing within the Arctic Refuge. Directs the Secretary of the Interior (the Secretary) to initiate, through the Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Director), a coastal plain oil and gas leasing program. Makes this Act the sole authority for oil and gas leasing and regulation on the coastal plain. Suspends all lease sales, in the event that the State of Alaska initiates a judicial challenge to the division of revenues between the State and the Federal Government, until a final decision has been issued. Directs the Secretary, through the Director, to publish draft competitive oil and gas coastal plain leasing regulations within six months after the date of enactment of this Act. Declares a certain "Final Legislative Environmental Impact Statement" to be adequate to satisfy Federal law. Sets forth environmental policy guidelines for such regulations, including a mandatory analysis of the direct, indirect, and cumulative impacts of oil and gas development. Sets forth general procedures and conditions for competitive oil and gas leasing, including expedited judicial review of administrative actions relating to such leasing, bonding requirements, and environmental stipulations. Directs the Secretary to establish a Federal-State Interagency Task Force for the Arctic Refuge, within 60 days after the date of enactment of this Act, to assist the Secretary, acting through the Director, in the development and implementation of an oil and gas exploration program that will avoid significant adverse impact upon fish, wildlife, and the environment. Sets forth Task Force responsibilities and membership. Grants the Secretary (acting through the Director) exclusive authority to grant a right-of-way across the coastal plain for purposes of a common carrier transportation or utility system corridor. Prohibits granting a permanent right-of-way until the first competitive coastal plain lease sale has been held. Mandates that the right-of-way standards for oil and gas pipelines across the coastal plain be consistent with the remainder of the pipeline outside the Arctic Refuge. Prohibits the construction of more than two new port facilities necessitated by oil or gas development that affects the Arctic Refuge along a specified coastal area. Prohibits the construction of any port facility within a distance of one and a half miles on either side of Pokok Bluffs (a polar bear denning habitat). Prohibits port facility or offshore causeway construction without prior consultation with specified fish and wildlife agencies. Grants the Secretary enforcement powers for violations of this Act, including power to issue compliance orders and assess civil and criminal penalties. Imposes joint, several, and strict liability for pollution and damages to wildlife and the environment caused by discharge or development activities involving oil, gas, or hazardous substances. Grants the Secretary the right to accomplish control and removal at the expense of the responsible party. Requires the Secretary to: (1) revise a specified Arctic Refuge conservation plan to include the Arctic Refuge coastal plain; (2) consult with affected State, native villages, regional corporations, and Canada in evaluating the impact of oil and gas exploration upon fish and wildlife; and (3) report biennially to congressional committees regarding the status of the oil and gas leasing program and its impact upon wildlife and the environment. Amends the Refuge Revenue Sharing Act to direct the Secretary to segregate oil and gas leasing revenues on the Arctic and Teshekpuk-Utukok National Wildlife Refuges (including sand and gravel sale revenues) from all other revenues deposited into the Refuge Revenue Sharing Fund. Outlines the manner in which such revenues shall be apportioned. Amends the Migratory Bird Hunting Stamp Act to direct the Secretary to segregate excess oil and gas leasing revenues from all other monies within the Migratory Bird Conservation Fund. Amends the Migratory Bird Conservation Act to authorize approval by the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission of any acquisition recommendation made by the Secretary relating to: (1) the North American Waterfowl Plan (signed with Canada in 1986); and (2) land and water interests which would be acquired out of segregated oil and gas leasing revenues (including sand or gravel sale revenues) on the Arctic and Teshekpuk-Utukok National Wildlife Refuges. Outlines the manner in which such funds shall be allocated. Establishes the Fish and Wildlife Enhancement Trust Fund to promote fish and wildlife conservation. Provides for an initial endowment of such Fund from oil and gas leasing revenues, including sand or gravel sale revenues on the Arctic and Teshekpuk-Utukok National Wildlife Refuges. Requires the Director to submit annual summaries of trust fund expenditures to the appropriate congressional committees. Establishes as a National Wildlife Refuge and as a unit of the National Wildlife Refuge System the Teshekpuk-Utukok National Wildlife Refuge. Requires the Director to prepare a comprehensive conservation plan for such Refuge. Sets forth a limited oil and gas leasing moratorium within such Refuge. Continues the local use of coal as fuel. Repeals certain statutory prohibitions applicable to subsurface coastal plain property interests owned by the Arctic Slope Regional Corporation or surface property rights owned by the Kaktovik Inupiat Corporation. Precludes the authorization of exploratory drilling involving such property interests (with specified exceptions) until the day after the first lease sale is held pursuant to this Act. Applies environmental stipulations of the final regulations issued pursuant to this Act to all oil and gas exploration, development, and production activities involving such property interests. Requires all surface disturbance activities involving such property interests to be undertaken in accordance with a plan of operations to be approved by the Director. Confers full land reclamation liability upon coastal plain oil and gas leaseholders and holders of rights-of-way. Establishes the Coastal Plain Liability and Reclamation Fund within six months of a commercial discovery within the coastal plain and capitalizes such Fund with royalties from commercially produced crude oil or natural gas. Authorizes appropriations for impact aid for affected governments and communities. Directs the Secretary to establish an impact aid grant program for such entities, and to submit to the Congress the results of a study of projected impact aid needs. Requires the Secretary, through the Director, to establish a program to restore and enhance seriously eroded, degraded, or converted U.S. wetlands. Directs the Secretary to identify and prepare enhancement and restoration plans for wetlands that have been seriously affected by conversions or erosion. Sets forth plan requirements. Authorizes appropriations from the Wetlands Restoration and Enhancement Account to carry out such activities. Prohibits the exchange of any part of the Yukon Delta National Wildlife Refuge without congressional approval. Title III: Miscellaneous Provisions - Amends the Migratory Bird Conservation Act to provide that lease terms shall, at a minimum, address the same wildlife conservation and protection matters that are applicable to the access and development of reserved non-Federal mineral interests in National Wildlife Refuge System areas. Amends the Fish and Wildlife Improvement Act to authorize appropriations for each fiscal year through FY 1998 for the Secretary of the Interior to implement the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance Especially as Waterfowl Habitat. Amends the Refuge Administration Act to provide that specified Federal criminal law does not preclude the use of aircraft and motor vehicles in implementation of approved management plans on national wildlife refuges.

Recycling Information Clearinghouse Act of 1989

United States · United States Congress · 23 March 1989

Recycling Information Clearinghouse Act of 1989 - Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to require the Environmental Protection Agency to establish a clearinghouse for information about the recycling of municipal solid waste, to be administered by the Office of Solid Waste. Requires that the information collected and disseminated to the public by such clearinghouse include: (1) an annual estimate of the volume and rate of recycling of materials from the municipal solid waste stream; (2) an annual estimate of the balance of trade in recycled materials and products; (3) economic data comparing the costs and benefits of recycling various materials from the municipal solid waste stream; (4) a catalog of State and local laws that encourage or require the recycling of materials from the municipal solid waste stream; (5) a list of all purchases of recycled materials or products by the Federal Government, organized by agency and the type of recycled materials or products purchased; (6) a register announcing all solicitations by Federal agencies for the purchase of recycled materials or products; (7) information about state-of-the-art recycling methods, programs, or technologies; and (8) a register of all potential purchasers of recycled materials. Requires that a toll-free telephone hotline be established and made available to those seeking information from the clearinghouse. Provides that, to the extent feasible, such information should be computerized to facilitate its analysis and retrieval. Makes a State ineligible for solid waste disposal assistance after December 31, 1990, unless the State maintains and publicizes a register of potential purchasers of recycled materials known to the State solid waste planning authorities. Requires such register to be periodically updated and submitted to the clearinghouse. Authorizes appropriations for such clearinghouse.

Transgenic Animal Regulatory Reform Act

United States · United States Congress · 22 March 1989

Transgenic Animal Regulatory Reform Act - Title I: Biotechnology Science Coordinating Committee - Establishes a Biotechnology Science Coordinating Committee within the Office of Science and Technology Policy in the Executive Office of the President. States that the Committee: (1) shall carry out its functions under the supervision of the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy; and (2) shall have no authority to review Federal agency regulatory decisions regarding genetically-engineered animals. Title II: USDA Regulation of the Use of Genetically-Engineered Animals - Prohibits the use of a genetically-engineered animal in agricultural activity without a permit issued by the Secretary of Agriculture. Requires an applicant to demonstrate that the proposed activity does not constitute an unreasonable risk to human health, welfare, or the environment. Exempts the following from regulation under this title: (1) animals used in biomedical research or for the production of drugs and for which the Secretary of Health and Human Services has established a system of controls; (2) animals released into the wild and for which the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established a system of controls; and (3) any substance subject to the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act. Directs the Secretary to establish a Transgenic Animal Advisory Committee to review and make recommendations on permit applications. Directs the Secretary to report every six months to the Congress and the Biotechnology Science Coordinating Committee regarding permit applications. Subjects violators of this title or related regulations to specified penalties under the Toxic Substances Control Act. Title III: Miscellaneous - Amends the Poultry Products Inspection Act and the Federal Meat Inspection Act to include genetically-engineered animals under the coverage of such Acts.