The RMP is the nation’s primary defense against catastrophic industrial chemical releases, fires, and explosions. In reconsidering the RMP, the EPA eliminated provisions essential to improving the safety of industrial facilities and protecting workers, fence line communities, and emergency responders. The EPA estimated 177 million Americans live close enough to an industrial facility to be harmed by a chemical release, fire, or explosion, and that risk falls disproportionately on low-income and minority communities. One in three children attends school in a vulnerability zone for an industrial chemical disaster.

In response to the EPA’s decision, the BlueGreen Alliance released the following statement from Executive Director, Jason Walsh:

“Recklessly endangering the lives of millions of Americans as the EPA has done with this rule is unconscionable. This action shows once again that the Trump administration does not prioritize the health and safety of workers and communities, but rather seeks to give corporations free reign to act irresponsibly without consequence.”