Coordinated Leadership for Environmental and Aquatic Needs–Unified Planning Act; CLEAN–UP Act
Summary
The CLEAN-UP Act (H.R. 7268) aims to facilitate the removal and remediation of contaminated sediments from waterways. It allows the Secretary of the Army to carry out authorized water development projects in coordination with non-Federal interests and with EPA approval. The bill seeks to clarify liability under CERCLA for the Secretary of the Army when conducting these activities.
Expected Effects
This act will likely lead to cleaner waterways and reduced environmental risks associated with contaminated sediments. It could streamline the process for remediation projects by clarifying roles and responsibilities. The bill also emphasizes cost recovery from responsible parties, potentially reducing the financial burden on taxpayers.
Potential Benefits
- Improved water quality and reduced environmental risks.
- Streamlined remediation project implementation through joint planning.
- Clarified liability for the Secretary of the Army under CERCLA.
- Potential cost savings for taxpayers through cost recovery from responsible parties.
- Enhanced collaboration between federal and non-federal entities.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential delays due to the requirement for joint planning and EPA approval.
- Risk of inadequate funding for remediation projects.
- Possible loopholes that could limit the scope of liability protection for the Secretary of the Army.
- Uncertainty regarding the effectiveness of remediation methods.
- Potential for disputes between federal and non-federal entities regarding project implementation.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the General Welfare Clause (Article I, Section 8) by promoting environmental protection and public health through the remediation of contaminated sediments. It also involves the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8) as it regulates activities affecting navigable waters. The bill delegates authority to the Secretary of the Army and the EPA Administrator, which is permissible under the Necessary and Proper Clause (Article I, Section 8).
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).