California's environmental board approved hazardous waste plan that critics say could weaken protections

"California's environmental board voted 4-1 to approve the state's first hazardous waste management plan despite environmental advocates' concerns about potential deregulation. Environmental groups fear the plan could weaken protections by encouraging the state to review federal exemptions for hazardous materials recycling and potentially redefining what counts as hazardous. The board pledged closer oversight of controversial provisions and committed to reassessing contentious recommendations before revisions in 2028."

"A California environmental oversight board approved a state plan outlining strategies to safely reduce hazardous waste - despite sharp criticism from environmental groups who say several aspects of the plan could invite deregulation. A 2021 state law directed the California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) to publish a plan every three years, outlining the state's approach to minimize the generation, disposal and incineration of hazardous waste. In March, the state agency released a draft of the first-ever hazardous waste management plan, drawing opposition for a controversial recommendation to consider allowing more contaminated soil to be dumped at nonhazardous landfills."

"Eight months later, after four public meetings, a revised plan was discussed during a hearing in mid-November at the CalEPA headquarters in Sacramento. Many environmentalists remained wary, noting the plan still recommends reviewing federal exemptions for hazardous materials that can be recycled and a broader reassessment of California's standards. Their fear is that this could lead the state to roll back its protocols - widely considered among the most strict in the country."

California's environmental oversight board approved a hazardous waste management plan by a 4-1 vote that outlines strategies to minimize the generation, disposal and incineration of hazardous waste. A 2021 law requires the Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) to publish the plan every three years. The draft recommended allowing more contaminated soil in nonhazardous landfills and called for reviewing federal recycling exemptions and state hazardous definitions, prompting strong opposition from environmental groups. Critics warn the recommendations could weaken California's strict protections. The board pledged closer oversight of controversial provisions and committed to reassessing contentious recommendations before 2028 revisions.

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