EPA official says agency working with Texas companies on truce over touchy permitting issues
By APTuesday, September 14, 2010
Official: EPA, Texas working on permit solution
HOUSTON — An Environmental Protection Agency official says the agency will soon help Texas petrochemical companies comply with the Clean Air Act after it rejected the state’s industrial permitting program.
EPA regional director Al Armendariz says he is trying to reach a deal with Texas on a state-operated program that would meet federal requirements. Recent letters from Armendariz to Texas officials reveal obstacles remain.
Armendariz says the federal audit program being announced soon will guarantee participating companies forgiveness on past pollution violations.
EPA and Texas officials will meet industry leaders Thursday.
The EPA obarred the state’s permitting program in June, but Texas is challenging the decision in court.
