Pennsylvania has enacted a statewide drinking water limit on PFAS, two forms of highly toxic chemicals, nicknamed “forever chemicals.” The rule sets a limit of 14 parts per trillion for perfluorooctanoic acid and 18 parts per trillion for perfluorooctane sulfonic acid, and applies to all 3,117 water systems in the Commonwealth.
Bruder Jr, Paul J
Environmental Hearing Board Clarifies the Limits of Its De Novo Review Authority
In a 2021 Opinion and Order on a Motion for Summary Judgment, the Environmental Hearing Board (EHB or Board) clarified the limits of its de novo review powers in light of an argument that a deficiency in a permit application could be cured at trial under the Board’s de novo review powers.
The Law of “Constitutional Standing” Taking Shape in Pennsylvania
The past decade has seen the re-emergence of Article I, Section 27 of the Pennsylvania Constitution, known as the Environmental Rights Amendment, or “ERA” as a stand-alone cause of action for challenges to actions of the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, and other federal and state agencies and commissions.
Mette, Evans & Woodside Names Paul Bruder Firm President
Mette, Evans & Woodside recently announced a transition in the role of firm president.
PA Supreme Court Decision In Agricultural Case
PA Supreme Court rules that family farms do not have to comply with municipal ordinances that are stricter than state law.
Stormwater Fees Drawing the Ire of Citizens and Businesses State-Wide
Citizens are expressing their skepticism and outright anger about stormwater fees that are being assessed throughout the Commonwealth.
PFAS Takes Center Stage in Pennsylvania
PFAS chemicals, which historically had been used in products in the U.S., continue to show up in soil and water systems. Various bills are making their way through Congress and Pennsylvania is exploring the idea of setting state-wide health standards for the PFAS.
Paul J. Bruder Secures Victory for Hubley Township – Joint Sewage Facilities Plan Will Go Forward
The Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania has reversed a decision of the Environmental Hearing Board that nullified a Joint Act 537 plan between Hegins and Hubley townships. The plan was the first comprehensive revision to either township’s Act 537 plans since 1967. In...
DEP Provides Clarification On Reporting Requirements For New And Increased POTW Discharges
In 2010 the EQB enacted extensive changes to DEP’s NPDES regulations, now codified at Chapter 92a. Among these changes was a revision to a previous requirement to apply for a new NPDES permit whenever significant changes to influent pollutant loadings-—either the addition of a new pollutant or a substantial increase in an existing pollutant-—was projected to occur. The new regulation, now at § 92a.24(a), is a bit less stringent.
What To Do If You Suspect Your Groundwater Is Contaminated
Attorney Paul J. Bruder, Jr. covers what you should do if you suspect your groundwater is contaminated. It is important to immediately stop using the contaminated water and call the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
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