To bring about speedier cleanups, more productive use of abandoned sites and fairer settlements, EPA in late May proposed a series of administrative reforms to the Superfund program.
Two new enforcement policies will reduce the liability faced by buyers of certain contaminated properties. EPA says these measures should help in its 'Brownfields' program focusing on redeveloping abandoned, contaminated industrial sites. In addition to providing assurances to future landowners, these changes should give current owners of contaminated properties a financial incentive to clean up their sites, EPA says.