Shehla and Cynthia sit down with two EPA ombudsmen to discuss their role helping municipal and tribal governments navigate the sometimes complex web of federal environmental requirements—from carrying out obligations under the Clean Water Act to addressing asbestos still present in many schools and buildings today. Tune in to learn more about how these “ombuds” can serve as a resource for your city or tribe’s compliance and enforcement needs.

Guests:

· Jamie Piziali, Municipal Ombudsman, Environmental Protection Agency’s Office of Congressional and Intergovernmental Relations

· Paula Hoag, Asbestos and Small Business Ombudsman, Environmental Protection Agency’s Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization

Additional Resources:

National Small Business Environmental Assistance Program

Check out these state-specific compliance assistance resources, including a map of state-level compliance programs and associated contact information.

Giving Green Streets the Green Light: Improving Water Quality Through Capital Improvement Policies

Many localities facing difficulties in complying with the Clean Water Act due to pollution from stormwater runoff are turning to green infrastructure practices, which can reduce flooding and prevent polluted runoff from entering nearby waterbodies. Learn more about how local governments across the U.S. are implementing these policies, and how your city can do the same.

Database of State Indoor Air Quality Laws

The ELI Database of State IAQ Laws is an annual compilation of laws reflecting a wide range of state policy strategies to improve indoor air quality, including regulations around asbestos in schools, homes, and businesses.

For more information and resources on these topics, be sure to visit LGEAN’s Wastewater, Stormwater, and Asbestos pages!