Chalmette Refining Violated Clean Air Act

The Times-Picayune reports that U.S. District Judge Sarah S. Vance ruled that Chalmette Refining LLC violated the federal Clean Air Act on 34 occasions, discharging more pollution into the air than its state permits allow. The judge also ruled that two environmental groups, St. Bernard Citizens for Environmental Quality and the Louisiana Bucket Brigade, have the right to sue the refinery to enforce federal environmental laws. Adam Babich, director of the Tulane Environmental Law Clinic, which represents the environmental groups, said Vance's ruling is crucial.

Judge Vance also ruled that the residents do not have to prove that their health was harmed by the emissions, or that the refinery is the only source of the pollution, to file suit. She said the foul odors and soot the groups complained about are sufficient reasons for them to sue under the Clean Air Act.

Posted by Capital Clerks at February 10, 2005 09:26 AM