What are the penalties for violating environmental laws?

In California, the penalties for violating environmental laws depend on the specifics of your violations. If you are found in violation of air quality, water quality, hazardous waste, or other laws, you could be assessed a penalty of up to $25,000 for each day the violation occurred. In addition, the court may require you to pay the costs of investigation and enforcement of the violations. You could also face criminal prosecution, which could lead to fines, imprisonment, or both. In some cases, the California Air Resources Board, Regional Water Quality Control Boards, and other government agencies have authority to issue orders regarding violations. Those orders may require corrective actions, issue civil penalties, or take other actions. The agencies may also issue ‘abatement orders’ which require the person responsible to take specified actions to abate the violation. It is important to note that environmental laws are often very complicated. If you feel that you may be in violation of environmental laws, it is important to seek legal advice to ensure that you are in compliance with the law.

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