Federal law requires the person in charge of a facility or vessel to immediately notify the Federal government of a release of a reportable quantity or more of a hazardous substance into the environment and of an oil spill into U.S. navigable waters if the spill causes a sheen or violates applicable water quality standards. The reporting of hazardous substance releases and oil spills allows the Federal government to determine whether a response action is required to protect public health and the environment. Further, release information helps the Federal government evaluate the need for additional regulations and informs emergency response planners.
US Code:
42 USC 9603
Name of Law: Notification requirements respecting released substances
US Code:
33 USC 1321
Name of Law: Oil and hazardous substance liability
On behalf of this Federal agency, I certify that the collection of information encompassed by this request complies with 5 CFR 1320.9 and the related provisions of 5 CFR 1320.8(b)(3).
The following is a summary of the topics, regarding the proposed collection of information, that the certification covers:
(i) Why the information is being collected;
(ii) Use of information;
(iii) Burden estimate;
(iv) Nature of response (voluntary, required for a benefit, or mandatory);
(v) Nature and extent of confidentiality; and
(vi) Need to display currently valid OMB control number;
If you are unable to certify compliance with any of these provisions, identify the item by leaving the box unchecked and explain the reason in the Supporting Statement.