 DEC: Polluters’ lackies
can replace state monitors
It’s a classic case of letting the fox guard the
chickens.
A recent change in policy at the state Department of
Environmental Conservation would allow polluters to hire
private contractors to act in place of the state’s
environmental watchdogs.
It has long been the state’s policy to require its
own environmental monitors at dangerous chemical plants
and waste-handling facilities.
However, state Environmental Commissioner Erin Crotty
recently issued a ruling that would allow the
state’s largest polluters to hire their own
consultants to replace the state monitors.
“These environmental monitors are PEF members who
serve as the public’s watchdogs at these
facilities,” says PEF President Roger Benson.
“They are highly trained professionals who protect
our land, air, and water by enforcing state Environmental
Conservation Law and regulations.”
The state monitors are funded by facilities, contractors,
sites or regulated activities, and polluters caught
breaking the law that have the potential to cause damage
to the public health and/or environment.
PEF has already elicited the help of many environmental
groups, such as the Sierra Club, to protest this policy
change.
“We urge all of our members to contact the governor,
Commissioner Crotty and their state legislators to
protest this very dangerous abdication of public
responsibility,” Benson said. — Sherry Halbrook
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COMMUNICATOR HOMEPAGE
Inside This Issue:
Features
PEF fires back in budget
battles for state services
PEF fights to raise state
revenues
Budget cuts leave research
in tatters
Unions may unite in battle
over health benefits
DEC: Polluters’ lackies
can replace state monitors
Departments
President's Message: NYS
budget must be fair
You Said It: Member's
letters this month
Health & Safety:
Evaluating your safety risks
Member Mobilization:
Building Survivor Skills
Nurses' Station: Lobby Day
plans for May 5th
Retirees In Action: Fight
health insurance hike
PEF Membership Benefits
Program & Travel Corp
Members In Action
Union Matters
'Operation Enduring Freedom'
with state workers
DOH members ahead in
evacuation planning
Call for Delegates: Annual
Convention Rules
Member dons dress to raise
$$ for charity
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