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 Nevada, as in other states, businesses and industries are required to comply with both federal and state environmental regulations. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is responsible for implementing federal environmental laws by creating regulations and setting national standards. Nevada enforces these standards through its own state regulations, which are managed by the Nevada Division of Environmental Protection (NDEP). If Nevada fails to meet the national standards set by the EPA, the EPA can step in to assist or enforce compliance. Industries such as agriculture, automotive, construction, utilities, oil & gas, transportation, and others must adhere to these regulations to operate legally. This includes not only ongoing compliance with environmental laws but also addressing environmental considerations during business transactions, such as the allocation of risks and costs associated with environmental cleanup and compliance. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in legal and financial consequences. Businesses are advised to consult with an attorney to ensure they understand and meet all environmental regulatory requirements.