Cal/EPA Releases First Draft of Key Reform Regulations

For Immediate Release (C-15-96)
Contact: Communications Office (916) 324-9670
May 1, 1996

555 Capitol Mall, Suite 525
Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 324-9670
FAX (916) 445-5563

SACRAMENTO -- The first draft of regulations designed to achieve California's high environmental standards in 20 communities through a more flexible regulatory process were released for public comment today by Cal/EPA.

"Governor Wilson's permit consolidation zone program keeps California yet again on the cutting edge of environmental protection and regulatory reform.  Having already taken the major step of making it possible for multiple permits to be issued more efficiently for single facilities, California is now moving to replace permits through the voluntary submission of enforceable compliance plans.  This approach can make it less expensive for facilities to operate in full legal compliance, while better protecting the environment through the encouragement of new technologies and approaches," California Secretary for Environmental Protection James M. Strock said.

SB 1299 (Peace) established the 20 community pilot projects where local governments will cooperate with state and regional environmental regulators to expedite construction or expansion of facilities which submit enforceable plans for compliance with environmental regulations in lieu of traditional permitting.

The first draft of the regulations sets out the basic parameters of how a consolidation zone will be established and operated.  This program has national importance in moving beyond traditional command-and-control regulation, applying private sector innovation to operations while focusing government on enabling functions in the application phase and enforcement functions during the operational phase.

"Since this is a leadership effort, we will be particularly receptive to imaginative ideas, including how to link these pilots with international ISO 14000 environmental management standards and other innovative efforts.  I encourage interested parties throughout the state to attend the hearings in their area or submit their comments directly to our office," Strock concluded.

A copy of the first draft is available on Cal/EPA's Internet homepage (www.calepa.ca.gov) or by calling (916) 324-9670.

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