ENFORCING POLLUTION CONTROL LAWS IN THE U.S

• Published in: Policy studies journal Vol. 11; no. 1; pp. 55 - 65
• Main Authors: Downing, Paul B., Kimball, James N.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Oxford, UK Blackwell Publishing Ltd 01.09.1982; University of Illinois
• Subjects: Pollution
• ISSN: 0190-292X; 1541-0072
• DOI: 10.1111/j.1541-0072.1982.tb00236.x

Existing literature on enforcement of pollution laws is reviewed & supplemented with a case study of water pollution control equipment; the findings are evaluated according to the economics of the industrial firm & the control agency. The enforcement process is divided into three steps: (1) setting emission standards; (2) detecting violations of those standards; & (3) taking action to correct violations, including obtaining convictions & leveling fines. Literature on policy choices at each of these steps is explored. A review of prosecution efforts shows resource limitations to be the most important factor hindering successful litigation; problems of obtaining accurate data & lack of cooperation between state agencies also inhibit prosecution. Cost subsidies, gains from regulation, corporate image, & reduced interaction with the government are all identified as factors contributing to compliance with regulations. Finally, the literature suggests that compliance, or the appearance of a good faith effort to comply with regulations, is the least costly alternative for firms, given the existing climate of regulation enforcement. 27 References. J. Weber.