Member Pipeline - Fax Alerts - September 13, 2002
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September 13, 2002
AMSA Looks to Science for Answer on Dioxins in Biosolids
AMSA filed comments this week on a June 12, 2002 Notice of Data Availability (NODA) that released new data and risk assessment results relevant to EPA’s impending regulatory decision on dioxins in land applied biosolids. EPA collected this new information after receiving substantial comments on its 1999 proposal, which had suggested that regulatory controls might be needed to lower the risk posed by dioxins in biosolids. Based on the scientific information provided in the NODA, which found low observed dioxins concentrations, declining levels of dioxins over time, and low risk, AMSA concluded that no regulatory action is necessary. AMSA’s comments did highlight a few issues with the Agency’s new probabilistic risk assessment which should be addressed before the Agency takes final action. AMSA also responded to 12 specific requests for comment, including whether to exclude small facilities from any regulation and alternative monitoring frequencies. AMSA’s comments can be obtained at: http://www.amsa-cleanwater.org/private/legreg/outreach/09-2002AMSACommentsW-99-18.pdf.
AMSA Urges Opposition to Senate Chemical Security Bill
This week, AMSA sent a letter to the Senate urging opposition to S.1602, the Chemical Security Act, co-sponsored by Senators Jon R. Corzine (D-NJ), James M. Jeffords (I-VT), Hilary R. Clinton (D-NY), and Barbara Boxer (D-CA). The letter also encourages Senators to vote against any measure to adopt S. 1602 as an amendment to pending legislation that would establish a new Department of Homeland Security (S. 2452). The letter can be obtained at: http://www.amsa-cleanwater.org/private/legreg/outreach/09-10-02S1602ltr.pdf. AMSA’s primary concern with S. 1602 is that the bill would authorize EPA to develop new rules which would disrupt ongoing wastewater security enhancement efforts. AMSA referenced the many security initiatives the Association has ongoing, including the development and dissemination of the Vulnerability Self Assessment Software Tool (VSAT™). In addition, AMSA reiterated its strong support for the bipartisan H.R. 5169, the Wastewater Treatment Works Security Act of 2002, which would authorize $200 million for POTWs to conduct vulnerability assessments and to pay for improved and enhanced security at their facilities.
Senator Smith’s Primary Loss to Shake Up Environment & Public Works Committee
Senate Environment and Public Works Committee ranking member Bob Smith (R-NH), was defeated Tuesday in New Hampshire’s Republican primary by Rep. John Sununu. Senator James Inhofe (R-OK), is expected to replace Smith on the panel either as ranking member or – if Republicans retake the Senate in November – as Chairman of the committee. AMSA has worked with Smith and his staff for the past several years on wastewater funding legislation and presented him with a 2001 National Environmental Achievement Award. Smith also was recognized for his leadership on clean and safer water May 22 by the Water Infrastructure Network. While Inhofe is also up for re-election this year, he is expected to win a second full term in the Senate. Inhofe has drawn criticism from the League of Conservation Voters and the activist community, yet has strong support from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce for his position on environmental and infrastructure issues. Committee assignments for the 108th congress will be made in early 2004.
- Attend the World Watershed Summit, part of the Year of Clean Water initiative led by the Association of State & Interstate Water Pollution Control Administrators (ASIWPCA), and supported by AMSA. Several AMSA members will be featured in the agenda sessions, focusing on innovative watershed initiatives and stream restoration techniques. For more information on the agenda and registration, visit the “events” section of Year of Clean Water web site at http://www.yearofcleanwater.org/.