U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

The EPA is the federal agency responsible for enforcing national environmental standards, including those related to air quality and pollutants including PM_2.5 and PM₁₀. The agency plays a critical role when state agencies fail to adequately address environmental justice concerns.

• Role: The EPA has authority under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act to investigate complaints of discrimination in environmental enforcement. This includes complaints related to coal dust exposure in Hampton Roads. The EPA also sets National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) and funds air monitoring projects, which can help identify the extent of coal dust pollution in the region.
• Relevance: Community groups often turn to the EPA when state agencies, like the VA DEQ, fail to act on local concerns. The EPA's involvement can bring federal pressure to bear on state and local agencies, often leading to stronger enforcement or regulatory changes. In Hampton Roads, the EPA has been a key partner in pushing for more stringent air quality standards and better monitoring of coal dust pollution.