NPDES Permit Issues
NPDES Streamlining - Proposed Rule
Background: In response to President Clinton's February 21, 1995 Reinventing Government directive, EPA proposed revisions to NPDES requirements in 40 CFR Parts 122, 123, and 124 to eliminate redundant regulations, provide clarification, and remove or streamline unnecessary procedures which do not provide environmental benefits (Round II). Proposed revisions for Round II, as published by EPA on December 11, 1996, include: 1) allowing general permits to cover multiple categories of discharges, thus, increasing the ability of general permits to cover currently unregulated sources, and streamline reissuance procedures of general permits where no changes in permit conditions are anticipated; 2) allowing permit writers not to require permit limits for all effluent guideline listed pollutants under certain circumstances; 3) removal of stormwater group application requirements; 4) streamlining permit terminations procedures; and, 5) revising Part 124 evidentiary hearing procedures.
Status: EPA plans to publish a final rule in February 1999. Work has begun on Round III streamlining and may include (1) additional permit modifications that can be considered minor, and (2) changes to requirements concerning EPA's review of State permits. Other NPDES streamlining efforts are described in more detail in other sections of this Update. CONTACT: Thomas Charlton, EPA 202/260-6960.
EPA Expects to Propose Rule on Electronic Reporting in the NPDES Program
Background: EPA expects to propose a rule to allow NPDES reports and other information to be submitted electronically. The proposed rule would establish criteria for electronic reporting and a specific process and conditions for electronic reporting of discharge monitoring reports. The proposal addresses electronic signature, certification, and record keeping requirements that permittees would follow when submitting forms to EPA electronically.
Status: EPA expects to propose this rule in March 1999. CONTACT: Robin Danesi 202/260-2991
EPA Solicits Grants for Public Access to Environmental Monitoring
EPA is requesting applications from local governments for a total of approximately $3.4 million in grants to establish local environmental monitoring pilot programs as part of a Presidential initiative called Environmental Monitoring for Public Access and Community Tracking (EMPACT). EMPACT is designed to provide public access to clear, understandable, timely and accurate environmental monitoring data in at least 75 of the larger U.S. metropolitan areas in all 50 states. Environmental monitoring consists of systematic measurements, evaluations, and communication of physical, chemical and biological information. This information on environmental conditions will assist the public in day-to-day decision-making concerning their health and the environment. These pilots will be developed through community partnerships between state, local, and tribal governments, universities, not-for-profit organizations and the private sector. Copies of the application can be obtained from the Internet at http://www.epa.gov/empact. If you have questions regarding the EMPACT program please leave a message at 1-800-490-9194, and your call will be returned the next business day. All applications must be received by EPA on April 8, 1999 no later than 4 p.m.