Rhode Island Environmental News

EPA cites American Energy for clean-air violations

CHICAGO (July 13, 2006) - U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 5 has cited American Energy Corp. for alleged clean-air violations at the company's coal preparation plant at 43521 Mayhugh Hill Road, Township Highway 88, in Beallsville, Ohio.

EPA alleges AEC failed to comply with testing, notification and reporting requirements at the plant that processes coal from a coal mine. The company was required to test particulate (dust) emissions from the plant to ensure that they comply with emission limits.

"EPA's mission is to protect public health and the environment," said Acting Regional Administrator Bharat Mathur. "We will take whatever steps are needed to ensure compliance with the Clean Air Act."

These are preliminary findings of violations. To resolve them, EPA may issue a compliance order, assess an administrative penalty or bring suit against the company. AEC has 30 days from receipt of the notice to meet with EPA to discuss resolving the allegations.

Inhaling high concentrations of particulates can affect children, the elderly and people with heart and lung diseases the most.

Contact a Rhode Island environmental lawyer today and get a free consultation!

	Did You Know?
	There is a National Toxicology Program National Toxicology Program. Federal activity overseen by the Department of Health and Human Services with resources from National Institutes of Health, the Food and Drug Administration, and the Center for Disease Control. Its goals are to develop tests useful for public health regulations of toxic chemicals, to develop toxicological profiles of materials, to foster testing of materials, and to communicate the results for use by others.(NTP Information Office, MD B2-04, Box 12233, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709).