Lucille Roybal-Allard: “If a business pollutes, then it is the responsibility of that business, not the taxpayer, to pay for the cleanup. It is…”

“If a business pollutes, then it is the responsibility of that business, not the taxpayer, to pay for the cleanup. It is that simple and it is morally right and fair. I represent Vernon, California, where a lead-acid battery recycling plant, for years, blanketed families in and around Vernon with lead, arsenic, and other toxins. The plant eventually closed but tragically, its environmental damage remains, leaving an estimated 10,000 contaminated homes. Because there are no clear requirements for financial responsibility, the response to the lead contamination in my district was delayed, and after more than a year, it still has not been resolved. Families living in these areas continue to live in fear for their children while others struggle to care for children who, as a result of this contamination, are suffering from learning disabilities, cancer and other health related issues. To allow section 430 to prohibit the EPA from issuing financial responsibility requirements for businesses that handle hazardous substances which can pollute our communities across the country is madness, Mr. Speaker. We must pass this amendment to ensure that polluters who cheat the system pay the bill, not the American taxpayer. The Acting CHAIR. The question is on the amendment offered by the gentleman from California (Mr. Becerra). The question was taken; and the Acting Chair announced that the noes appeared to have it.”