MPCA joint powers agreement streamlines hazardous waste regulation
Ramsey County recently entered into a hazardous waste joint powers agreement (JPA) with the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA). The JPA increases efficiency in hazardous waste regulation between the state and county.
The Environmental Protection Agency, MPCA and Ramsey County all regulate hazardous waste in Minnesota. This overlap created an opportunity to streamline hazardous waste regulation. The JPA establishes a formal partnership between the state and county. It clarifies roles, creates a common understanding of hazardous waste rules and supports better communication between Ramsey County and the MPCA.
How will this JPA affect businesses?
Businesses in compliance with hazardous waste regulations will experience little to no effect from this JPA. There is no increased cost to businesses. VSQGs (very small quantity generators) will see no direct effect. Some LQGs (large quantity generators) and SQGs (small quantity generators) may receive a joint routine inspection from a county inspector and state inspector at the same time. All businesses should benefit from this agreement as it will provide consistency across agencies.
This article is featured in the Haz Waste Quarterly, an environmental health newsletter from Ramsey County.
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