State Brownfields and Voluntary Response Programs: An Update from the States The "State Brownfields and Voluntary Response Programs: An Update from the States" explores the evolving landscape of state environmental, financial, and technical programs designed to promote brownfields cleanup and reuse. This update provides a concise, user-friendly synopsis of the programs and tools that are available through state programs. The information contained in this report was gathered from state response program contacts and state response program websites. State programs continue to be at the forefront of brownfields cleanup and redevelopment, as both the public and private markets recognize the responsibilities and opportunities of state response programs in ensuring protective and sustainable cleanups. The increasing number of properties entering into state programs emphasizes the states' growing role in brownfields cleanup. State programs are continuing to adapt to meet the changing needs of property owners and communities. Many different—but equally effective—approaches are available to meet the multiple challenges and common objectives of brownfields reuse. Several states recently passed legislative changes to establish new programs, while other states adopted new regulations to enhance their programs and encourage cleanups. Elements in the Analysis This update looks at several components of state brownfields/response programs. The Program overview lays out the basics of each state's voluntary response program and any other brownfields- related cleanup programs. It provides program titles and contact information for each state program, and discusses administrative elements, such as program costs, fees for service, and sources of funding for program staff and operations. A major part of the update is the review of Cleanup Activities. To the extent that states provided the necessary data, the update contains information on the number of properties that entered and/or subsequently completed a state's voluntary cleanup program. Financial Elements provides an explanation of assessment and cleanup funding, tax incentives, and other forms of brownfields redevelopment support available under state programs, such as environmental insurance. Typically, the applicability of specific programs comes down to a state agency's interpretation of which brownfields properties and activities are eligible for any particular assistance program. This update includes information on programs directly available through state voluntary response programs, as well as other incentive programs identified as being applicable to brownfields reuse efforts. The update includes information on funding sources, funding amounts, and a program's focus on special types of properties, such as dry cleaners or petroleum properties. In addition, this section discusses liability relief provisions. Program Elements provides information on the technical elements of individual state programs. It includes information on applicable cleanup methods and standards, contaminants covered or excluded under state programs, requirements governing institutional controls, and state approaches to long-term stewardship. Program Highlights provides a success story or overview of a project or activity recently conducted using the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Section 128(a) Response Program funding. The program highlights showcases the variety of ways states are using Section 128(a) Response Program funding to continue to develop their programs or conduct site-specific assessment or cleanup activities to protect human health and the environment. ------- |