What is the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA)?

The Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA) is a federal law that was enacted by the U.S. Congress in 1980. It is also known as The Superfund Law. CERCLA is intended to help the federal government and affected states respond to and fund the cleanup of large hazardous waste sites. The law makes the companies responsible for hazardous waste liable for the cleanup costs. It also ensures that the cleanup takes place if the responsible party is unable to pay the costs. In North Carolina, CERCLA has been used by the state to require cleanups of hazardous waste sites that have been left by companies and the military. It allows the state to seek reimbursement from companies that created the pollution and to hold them liable for the costs of the cleanup. CERCLA also gives the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) the authority to investigate potential hazardous waste sites and to take enforcement actions against responsible parties who do not comply with the law. The EPA also has the power to investigate spills and other potential environmental incidents. CERCLA has been an effective tool in protecting the environment in North Carolina. It has helped to clean up many hazardous waste sites, and it has held those responsible for the damage accountable. This law is an important part of the environmental law in North Carolina.

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What is the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA)?

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