When the U.S. Congress writes an environmental law, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) implements it by writing regulations. Often, the EPA sets national standards that each of the states and tribes enforce through their own regulations. If states and tribes fail to meet the national standards, the EPA can help them. The EPA also enforces its regulations and helps businesses understand the requirements.

Businesses and industries with operations that may impact the environment are often subject to regulations written by the EPA. Some examples of businesses and industries subject to EPA regulations include:

• Agriculture

• Automotive

• Construction

• Electric Utilities

• Oil & Gas

• Transportation

• Dry Cleaning

• Education/Schools

• Forestry & Logging

• Health Care & Social Assistance

• Mining

• Manufacturing

• Water & Sewage Utilities

• Public Administration & Government

Businesses in these and other industries must comply with applicable environmental laws and EPA regulations—as well as state environmental laws and regulations. In addition to compliance with environmental laws and regulations, businesses in these industries often must address environmental matters when buying and selling their businesses and entering into transactions for products and services. For example, it is often important in such transactions to allocate risks and costs related to environmental cleanup, compliance, and other issues.

In California, businesses and industries that may impact the environment are regulated by both federal and state environmental laws. The U.S. Congress passes environmental laws, which are then implemented by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) through regulations. The EPA sets national standards that California must enforce through its own regulations, and if the state fails to meet these standards, the EPA can intervene. California has its own environmental regulatory agency, the California Environmental Protection Agency (CalEPA), which works in conjunction with the EPA to ensure compliance with both federal and state environmental regulations. Industries such as agriculture, automotive, construction, and many others must adhere to these regulations. When businesses engage in transactions, they must consider environmental liabilities, including the allocation of risks and costs associated with environmental cleanup and compliance. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in penalties, legal action, and significant costs for businesses. It is advisable for businesses to consult with an attorney to navigate the complexities of environmental regulations and to ensure compliance in their operations and transactions.