National Enforcement Initiatives
EPA protects people’s health and safeguards communities by assuring compliance with the nation’s environmental laws and by taking enforcement action when laws are violated. Every three years, EPA sets national enforcement initiatives to focus civil and criminal enforcement resources and expertise on serious pollution problems affecting communities. The 2011-2013 initiatives were chosen with state and public input and support EPA’s seven priorities.
Not all pollution problems are best addressed as national enforcement initiatives. Learn more about all of EPA's enforcement activities.
Frequent Questions
Environmental Justice
EPA is taking enforcement action where illegal pollution poses greater risks to vulnerable and overburdened communities.
Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District Settlement: Reducing Raw Sewage and Stormwater Runoff
"Today's landmark settlement will advance environmental justice and revitalize Cleveland communities by investing in green infrastructure. This commitment will not only protect human health and the environment, it will ensure that Cleveland residents are protected from raw sewage and have access to clean water, beaches and communities." - Cynthia Giles, Assistant Administrator of EPA’s Office of Enforcement and Compliance and Assurance.