Which federal agency is tasked with enforcing regulations under CERCLA?

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is the federal agency responsible for enforcing regulations under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA), commonly known as the Superfund law. This act was established to facilitate the cleanup of sites contaminated with hazardous substances and to ensure the protection of human health and the environment.

The EPA plays a crucial role in overseeing the identification, assessment, and remediation of hazardous waste sites. As part of its responsibilities, the agency conducts investigations and cleanups, as well as holds liable parties accountable for contaminations. The EPA also provides guidance and technical support to state and local governments in handling hazardous waste issues.

The other agencies listed, while they may have their own specific roles related to safety, transportation, or disaster management, do not hold responsibility for enforcing CERCLA regulations. OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) focuses on workplace safety, the Department of Transportation (DOT) oversees transportation and logistics, and FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) coordinates disaster response and recovery. Each agency has distinct functions that do not encompass the regulatory enforcement mandated by CERCLA, further solidifying the EPA’s unique role in these matters.