Mercer Times

Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin has initiated three legal actions to safeguard federal environmental protections in New Jersey. These actions come amid concerns that the incoming Trump Administration may reverse regulations aimed at maintaining clean air and water.

In one of the cases, New Jersey, California, and Connecticut have filed an amicus brief representing 18 states to support the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) establishment of nationwide drinking water standards for certain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

In another case, New Jersey and nine other states have moved to intervene in defense of an EPA initiative to strengthen lead standards in drinking water under the Safe Drinking Water Act.

Additionally, New Jersey and a coalition of other states are seeking to intervene in lawsuits defending California’s Clean Air Act waiver for vehicle emissions regulations. This waiver allows California to implement stricter air quality standards than those at the federal level.

"New Jerseyans don’t want commonsense environmental regulations overturned in favor of industry at the expense of their families," said Attorney General Platkin. He emphasized that clean air and water are crucial for health outcomes.

State Commissioner of Environmental Protection Shawn M. LaTourette echoed this sentiment, stating, "Every person across New Jersey and our nation deserves safe drinking water and clean air."

The EPA’s National PFAS Standard sets enforceable limits on six PFAS chemicals found in drinking water across the country: PFOA, PFOS, PFHxS, GenX, PFNA, and PFBS. The rule mandates public water systems to test for these contaminants.

The lead exposure reduction initiative includes replacing lead pipes within ten years and lowering the lead action level from 15 μg/L to 10 μg/L. This rule is being challenged by the American Water Works Association.

For vehicle emissions regulations, New Jersey supports California's ability to set its own standards under EPA waivers due to its unique environmental challenges. The most recent waivers allow enforcement of ACC II and Omnibus regulations aimed at reducing emissions from vehicles sold in California.

These legal moves reflect a concerted effort by several states to maintain robust environmental protections amidst potential federal policy shifts.