Laws, Regulations, Guidance and Dockets

EPA began issuing regulations shortly after opening its doors in 1970. Since then, we have learned a great deal about working with stakeholders and running a sound regulatory development process. We have learned the process is dynamic - often requiring continual adjustments in both substance and process.

For example, EPA and other federal agencies have made strides in offering an online means for reading and submitting comments on regulations and related guidance. Similarly, new electronic reporting capabilities - such as the Environmental Information Exchange Network - provide state, tribal, and territorial partners with the means to securely share environmental and health information with one another and with us.

Furthermore, we continue to improve our environmental regulations once they are finalized. Because our responsibilities do not end once a rule appears in the Federal Register, we continue to work with the businesses and communities that are bound to put them into practice. Technical assistance, monitoring, compliance assurance, and enforcement are all equally important parts of the regulatory process.

In order to move towards a cleaner future, we will always rely on the American people to do their part - by getting involved with our regulatory actions and by volunteering and promoting environmentally friendly actions in their businesses, communities, and homes.

 

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