EPA hands down penalties to Rhode Island corporation for FIFRA violations
BOSTON (July 9, 2024) – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has reached a settlement with Ocean State Jobbers, Inc., doing business as Ocean State Job Lot, a corporation based out of North Kingstown, Rhode Island, for alleged violations of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act, also known as FIFRA. Under the settlement, the corporation has agreed to pay a penalty of $53,500 to resolve alleged violations of FIFRA involving the import, distribution and sale of misbranded bug zapper pesticide devices that were imported through Ports of Entry in Boston and Worcester, Massachusetts.
"The consumer deserves accuracy and demands accountability when it comes to products they purchase." said EPA New England Regional Administrator David W. Cash. "This settlement serves as a reminder that thoroughness is required, and not merely a suggestion, and that anyone importing pesticide devices into the U.S. needs to follow the proper ground rules to do so legally."
EPA alleged that Ocean State Job Lot imported, distributed or sold the misbranded bug zapper devices between February 2020 and April 2023. Bug zappers are regulated as "devices" under FIFRA because they are instruments that use physical mechanisms (in this case, electricity) to trap, destroy, repel, or mitigate a pest. The bug zappers were misbranded due to the lack of an EPA Establishment Number on the product labels. The EPA Establishment Number is a unique number assigned to the facility where the pesticide devices were produced. Ocean State Job Lot also failed to file the required Notices of Arrival for imports of the bug zappers during this period.
About the company
Ocean State Job Lot is a regional corporation headquartered in Rhode Island that operates a chain of discount retail stores, across New England, New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. The company sells a variety of products including household goods, apparel, pet supplies, seasonal items, and more. The corporation employs approximately 5,600 associates, with annual sales exceeding $800 million.
More information
EPA Importing and Exporting Pesticides and Devices: https://www.epa.gov/compliance/importing-and-exporting-pesticides-and-devices
Pesticide Devices: A Guide for Consumers: https://www.epa.gov/pesticides/pesticide-devices-guide-consumers
"The consumer deserves accuracy and demands accountability when it comes to products they purchase." said EPA New England Regional Administrator David W. Cash. "This settlement serves as a reminder that thoroughness is required, and not merely a suggestion, and that anyone importing pesticide devices into the U.S. needs to follow the proper ground rules to do so legally."
EPA alleged that Ocean State Job Lot imported, distributed or sold the misbranded bug zapper devices between February 2020 and April 2023. Bug zappers are regulated as "devices" under FIFRA because they are instruments that use physical mechanisms (in this case, electricity) to trap, destroy, repel, or mitigate a pest. The bug zappers were misbranded due to the lack of an EPA Establishment Number on the product labels. The EPA Establishment Number is a unique number assigned to the facility where the pesticide devices were produced. Ocean State Job Lot also failed to file the required Notices of Arrival for imports of the bug zappers during this period.
About the company
Ocean State Job Lot is a regional corporation headquartered in Rhode Island that operates a chain of discount retail stores, across New England, New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. The company sells a variety of products including household goods, apparel, pet supplies, seasonal items, and more. The corporation employs approximately 5,600 associates, with annual sales exceeding $800 million.
More information
EPA Importing and Exporting Pesticides and Devices: https://www.epa.gov/compliance/importing-and-exporting-pesticides-and-devices
Pesticide Devices: A Guide for Consumers: https://www.epa.gov/pesticides/pesticide-devices-guide-consumers
Cunningham and HNRC in Bomont, West Virginia, to pay $764,274 for alleged State and Federal violations
PHILADELPHIA -- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Mid-Atlantic Region (EPA) has reached a settlement with Cunningham Energy, LLC (Cunningham) and its parent, Houston Natural Resources Corp (HNRC), resolving alleged violations of the Clean Air Act (CAA) and the West Virginia State Implementation Plan associated with two Cunningham oil and gas well pads located at Shelton Road in Bomont, West Virginia. The consent agreement and final order requires Cunningham and HNRC to pay a $742,737 penalty for these violations plus accrued interest, for a total of $764,274.
According to the agreement (Docket No. CAA-03-2024-0119) filed on June 28, 2024, Cunningham failed to comply with permitting requirements and to properly control, monitor, and report emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOC) at its Bomont facilities. Releases of these compounds contribute to smog and ground level ozone. Ozone in the air can harm human health, especially on hot sunny days when ozone can reach unhealthy levels. Elevated exposures to ozone can affect sensitive vegetation and ecosystems, including forests, parks, wildlife refuges and wilderness areas.
In May 2023, EPA separately issued an Administrative Order on Consent (AOC) addressing the same violations underpinning this penalty settlement. This action and the previous AOC support EPA’s National Enforcement and Compliance Initiative for Mitigating Climate Change. VOC emissions indirectly contribute to climate change by increasing the concentration of ozone, which is a strong greenhouse gas.
For more information about EPA’s enforcement program, visit EPA’s enforcement website at epa.gov/enforcement.
EPA in West Virginia
The EPA has a new ArcGIS Story Map that explores the infrastructure, community, and revitalization work in West Virginia. This easy-to-use tool shows where some of the $500 million the EPA has invested in West Virginia is being used, what communities and environmental resources are benefiting from infrastructure projects, and how the public and stakeholders can learn more about current EPA activities in the state. Learn more about how the EPA works in West Virginia by visiting our new public Story Map here!
According to the agreement (Docket No. CAA-03-2024-0119) filed on June 28, 2024, Cunningham failed to comply with permitting requirements and to properly control, monitor, and report emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOC) at its Bomont facilities. Releases of these compounds contribute to smog and ground level ozone. Ozone in the air can harm human health, especially on hot sunny days when ozone can reach unhealthy levels. Elevated exposures to ozone can affect sensitive vegetation and ecosystems, including forests, parks, wildlife refuges and wilderness areas.
In May 2023, EPA separately issued an Administrative Order on Consent (AOC) addressing the same violations underpinning this penalty settlement. This action and the previous AOC support EPA’s National Enforcement and Compliance Initiative for Mitigating Climate Change. VOC emissions indirectly contribute to climate change by increasing the concentration of ozone, which is a strong greenhouse gas.
For more information about EPA’s enforcement program, visit EPA’s enforcement website at epa.gov/enforcement.
EPA in West Virginia
The EPA has a new ArcGIS Story Map that explores the infrastructure, community, and revitalization work in West Virginia. This easy-to-use tool shows where some of the $500 million the EPA has invested in West Virginia is being used, what communities and environmental resources are benefiting from infrastructure projects, and how the public and stakeholders can learn more about current EPA activities in the state. Learn more about how the EPA works in West Virginia by visiting our new public Story Map here!
Clearwater Paper to pay over $367,000 for failing to properly report extremely hazardous chlorine releases
Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced that Clearwater Paper Corporation of Lewiston, Idaho, will pay a combined $367,088 in penalties for failing to properly report releases of hazardous chlorine emissions that occurred in 2019, 2020 and 2021.
Multiple unexpected releases of chlorine gas occurred at Clearwater’s Lewiston facility that resulted in hundreds of pounds of this toxic chemical being emitted into the air. Chlorine is used at the facility to process pulp for paper production.
Some of these releases were large enough to cause evacuations at the facility and resulted in employees seeking medical attention after exposure.
“Communities and first responders near facilities using deadly chemicals have a need and a legal right to know when releases occur,” said EPA Region 10 Enforcement and Compliance Assurance Director Ed Kowalski. “These are not simple paperwork issues; the safety of workers, first responders, and residents rests on a company’s compliance with these requirements.”
The company was issued a $84,769 penalty under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act and an additional $237,319 penalty under the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act for its failure to immediately notify officials and provide timely follow-up reports regarding these releases.
The company was also issued an additional $45,000 penalty under EPCRA, for failure to properly report numerous releases in its annual Toxics Release Inventory reporting.
Additional details are available in the following documents:
Consent Agreement and Final Order (EPCRA-10-2024-0110)
Consent Agreement and Final Order (EPCRA-10-2024-0033)
Multiple unexpected releases of chlorine gas occurred at Clearwater’s Lewiston facility that resulted in hundreds of pounds of this toxic chemical being emitted into the air. Chlorine is used at the facility to process pulp for paper production.
Some of these releases were large enough to cause evacuations at the facility and resulted in employees seeking medical attention after exposure.
“Communities and first responders near facilities using deadly chemicals have a need and a legal right to know when releases occur,” said EPA Region 10 Enforcement and Compliance Assurance Director Ed Kowalski. “These are not simple paperwork issues; the safety of workers, first responders, and residents rests on a company’s compliance with these requirements.”
The company was issued a $84,769 penalty under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act and an additional $237,319 penalty under the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act for its failure to immediately notify officials and provide timely follow-up reports regarding these releases.
The company was also issued an additional $45,000 penalty under EPCRA, for failure to properly report numerous releases in its annual Toxics Release Inventory reporting.
Additional details are available in the following documents:
Consent Agreement and Final Order (EPCRA-10-2024-0110)
Consent Agreement and Final Order (EPCRA-10-2024-0033)
ILWU Canada illegal strike ruling averts Vancouver shutdown
Maritime employers at the Port of Vancouver prevailed at a last-minute federal hearing over a strike vote that longshore foremen took against DP World.
ILWU Canada illegal strike ruling averts Vancouver shutdown
Maritime employers at the Port of Vancouver prevailed at a last minute federal hearing over a strike vote that longshore foremen took against DP World.
USDA Welcomes 2024 Class of E. Kika De La Garza Fellows
WASHINGTON, July 8, 2024 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today welcomed 32 faculty and staff from Hispanic-Serving Institutions and Hispanic-Serving School Districts around the nation to the 2024 class of E. Kika De La Garza (EKDLG) Fellows.
Braces Have Changed, From Metal to Tooth-Colored to Clear
Braces have evolved and now alternatives in both look and materials are available. Here are some answers to common questions about braces.
EPA Selects Nevada’s Desert Research Institute for Funding to Support Environmental Education
LAS VEGAS — Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced the selection of Nevada’s System of Higher Education (NSHE) Board of Regents at the Desert Research Institute (DRI) to receive a competitive grant for environmental education in Nevada. This organization has been chosen for its exceptional work in promoting youth ecological stewardship and environmental education, with the grant supporting a project to mitigate microplastics in Nevada waterways.
“This year's grant recipient brings to life the most innovative and effective ideas to engage Nevada’s youth in addressing today’s urgent environmental challenges,” said EPA Pacific Southwest Regional Administrator Martha Guzman. “EPA is so proud to support this organization's efforts to make progress toward a future with clean air, clean water, and land for all."
The funding for the DRI is one of 38 grants nationwide being announced today by EPA. The projects supported by these grants aim to increase public awareness of environmental issues and provide skills so participants can make informed decisions and take responsible actions toward the environment.
Board of Regents, NSHE DRI - Mitigating Microplastics
EPA is awarding $100,000 to DRI to increase Nevada's environmental literacy through science, technology, engineering and mathematics educational interventions to address microplastic pollution in Nevada’s waterways. The goal of this project is to increase stewardship through STEM-based environmental education.
“DRI is honored to be awarded this EPA grant, and we are eager to begin our outreach to underserved rural and urban communities across Nevada,” said DRI STEM Education Program Manager Emily McDonald-Williams. “Middle school students and their families will learn about emerging environmental concerns and how to make informed decisions to help mitigate environmental issues.”
EPA Environmental Education Grants
Since 1992, EPA has distributed between $2 million and $3.7 million in EE grant funding each year, for a total of over $95.1 million supporting more than 3,960 projects. The program traditionally provides financial support for projects that design, demonstrate or disseminate environmental education practices, methods or techniques. For more information visit: https://www.epa.gov/education.
The EPA is funding 38 organizations nationwide with over $3.6 million. The funding will range from $50,000 to $100,000, to organizations that provide environmental education activities and programs. This year’s grantees will conduct project activities in 28 states and the Republic of Palau, America Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and Guam.
To learn more about current and past award winners, or to apply for future EE grant competitions, visit: https://www.epa.gov/education/environmental-education-ee-grants. This website will be updated as future competitions are announced and additional grants are awarded.
Learn about EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region. Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.
“This year's grant recipient brings to life the most innovative and effective ideas to engage Nevada’s youth in addressing today’s urgent environmental challenges,” said EPA Pacific Southwest Regional Administrator Martha Guzman. “EPA is so proud to support this organization's efforts to make progress toward a future with clean air, clean water, and land for all."
The funding for the DRI is one of 38 grants nationwide being announced today by EPA. The projects supported by these grants aim to increase public awareness of environmental issues and provide skills so participants can make informed decisions and take responsible actions toward the environment.
Board of Regents, NSHE DRI - Mitigating Microplastics
EPA is awarding $100,000 to DRI to increase Nevada's environmental literacy through science, technology, engineering and mathematics educational interventions to address microplastic pollution in Nevada’s waterways. The goal of this project is to increase stewardship through STEM-based environmental education.
“DRI is honored to be awarded this EPA grant, and we are eager to begin our outreach to underserved rural and urban communities across Nevada,” said DRI STEM Education Program Manager Emily McDonald-Williams. “Middle school students and their families will learn about emerging environmental concerns and how to make informed decisions to help mitigate environmental issues.”
EPA Environmental Education Grants
Since 1992, EPA has distributed between $2 million and $3.7 million in EE grant funding each year, for a total of over $95.1 million supporting more than 3,960 projects. The program traditionally provides financial support for projects that design, demonstrate or disseminate environmental education practices, methods or techniques. For more information visit: https://www.epa.gov/education.
The EPA is funding 38 organizations nationwide with over $3.6 million. The funding will range from $50,000 to $100,000, to organizations that provide environmental education activities and programs. This year’s grantees will conduct project activities in 28 states and the Republic of Palau, America Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and Guam.
To learn more about current and past award winners, or to apply for future EE grant competitions, visit: https://www.epa.gov/education/environmental-education-ee-grants. This website will be updated as future competitions are announced and additional grants are awarded.
Learn about EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region. Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.