United States
Environmental Protection Agency
FISCAL YEAR 2021
Justification of Appropriation
Estimates for the Committee
on Appropriations
Tab 13: Program and Performance Assessment
February 2020
EPA-190-S-20-001 www.epa.gov/ocfo
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Environmental Protection Agency
FY 2021 Annual Performance Plan and Congressional Justification
Table of Contents - Program and Performance Assessment
Introduction 690
Goal 1: A Cleaner, Healthier Environment 699
Goal 2: More Effective Partnerships 721
Goal 3: Greater Certainty, Compliance, and Effectiveness 727
689
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FY 2019 Annual Performance Report
Introduction
EPA's FY 2019 Annual Performance Report (APR) describes the second year of progress toward
the strategic goals and objectives in the FY 2018-2022 EPA Strategic Plan, available at
https://www.epa.gov/planandbudget/strategicplan. This APR presents results against the annual
performance goals and targets in the Agency's FY 2019 Annual Performance Plan (APP) and
Congressional Justification (CJ) as updated in the FY 2020 APP and CJ. Please also refer to EPA's
FY 2019 Agency Financial Report (AFR), available at https://www.epa.gov/planandbudget/fv-
2019-agency-financial'-report, for information on financial performance results.
Organization of the FY 2019 APR
EPA's FY 2019 performance results and trend data are integrated throughout the FY 2021 APP
and the CJ in the Budget Introduction, Goal Overviews, and Program Project Fact Sheets. The
Program Performance and Assessment section (Tab 13) is the primary component of EPA's FY
2019 APR. This section also includes EPA's FY 2021 annual performance goal targets and any
revisions to FY 2020 targets. This section is organized by strategic goal. For each strategic goal,
there is a Goal-at-a-Glance Overview and a detailed multiyear table with targets, results, graphs,
and key takeaways for the Agency's strategic objectives and annual performance goals. This
section adopts the terminology and color coding used to measure progress under the EPA Lean
Management System (ELMS), a set of practices and tools that supports Agency employees in
identifying and solving problems for optimal performance results.
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FY 2019 Performance Data
FY 2019 Annual Performance Goal
Results
For FY 2019, EPA reduced its number of
annual performance goals (from 114 to 45)
to focus on its most ambitious targets,
including annualized long-term
performance goals and measures
representing key work areas that support
those long-term performance goals. EPA
met 58% of the targets in their entirety for
annual performance goals with FY 2019
targets and data available (22 of 38). For 11
of its annual performance goals with FY
2019 targets and data available (29%), the
Agency achieved between 75-99% of the
target (including nine where the Agency
achieved between 90-99% of the target).
For five of its annual performance goals
with FY 2019 targets and data available (13%), the Agency achieved less than 75% of the target.
In the FY 2018-2022 EPA Strategic Plan, EPA set ambitious targets. While EPA is making
significant progress toward a broad range of policy outcomes, the Agency missed targets for 16
(of 38) annual performance goals that had FY 2019 targets and data available. Reasons for missed
targets include delays in program implementation, the complexity of the environmental challenge,
resource/staffing challenges, the lapse in government appropriations in December 2018 - January
2019, and other factors outside of the Agency's control (such as fewer requests than expected for
EPA actions). In some areas with missed targets, the Agency nevertheless made significant
improvements in its performance over recent years. EPA will continue to make progress toward
its performance targets by applying ELMS to improve the efficiency and cost effectiveness of its
operations. More detail is available throughout the report.
No FY 2019 results are available for four of the Agency's annual performance goals as of February
2020, due to data quality assurance/quality control processes, or no actions due during FY 2019.
As additional results data are received for FY 2019 annual performance goals, the Agency will
include the results in future APRs. Finally, FY 2019 results are reported for three of the Agency's
annual performance goals for which no targets were established.
Performance toward target by goal
Number of measures by percent of target achieved
2 (NT)
10 (Y)
12 (G)
1 (R)
~ 100% of target met (G)
~ 75-99% of target met (Y)
~ <75% of target met (R)
~ No target (NT)
1 (Y)
2(G)
Goal 1 Goal 2
A Cleaner, Healthier More Effective
Environment Partnerships
4 (NT)
Goal 3
Greater Certainty,
Compliance, and
Effectiveness
691
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Fiscal Year 2018 Data Now Available
EPA received final results for one of the 16 annual performance goals with missing data at the end
of FY 2018. EPA met the target in its entirety for that annual performance goal.1 The Agency has
no data for the other 15 annual performance goals because the methodology was not fully
established in FY 2019,2 no actions were due in FY 2018,3 or the measures were discontinued.4
Verification/Vaiidation of Performance Data
EPA maintains Data Quality Records (DQRs) to ensure consistency and quality of data used for
annual performance goal reporting. These DQRs outline the results being measured; data sources
and limitations; methods for calculating results; and controls to ensure good data quality. The
Agency developed DQRs for all 26 of the long-term performance goals in the FY 2018-2022 EPA
Strategic Plan, available at https://www.epa.gov/planandbudget/results.
FY 2(118-2019 Agency Priority Goals
EPA met targets for three of the six FY 2018-2019 Agency Priority Goals (APGs) in th eFY 2018-
2022 EPA Strategic Plan (water infrastructure, environmental compliance, permitting decisions)
and missed targets for three of the six APGs (redesignation of areas to air quality attainment, site
cleanups, and chemical safety). Complete FY 2018-2019 APG Action Plans and Quarterly
Progress Updates are available at https://www.performance.gov/EPA/APG epa l.html.
Improve air quality by implementing pollution control measures to reduce the
number of nonattainment areas. By September 30, 2019, EPA, in close collaboration
with states, will reduce the number of nonattainment areas to 138 from a baseline of 166.
Missed FY 2018-2019 target. As anticipated in APG quarterly updates, EPA missed the
APG target of 138 remaining nonattainment areas by nine areas (the APG target was based
on projections prior to FY 2018 - i.e., during calendar year 2017). Based on discussions
with state, tribal, and local air agencies over the past year, EPA projected 146 of the 166
1PM 432: Percentage of Clean Water Act National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permittees in
significant noncompliance with their permit limits.
2 PM SWP-01: Watersheds with surface waters not meeting standards (cumulative); PM ST1: Percentage of grant
commitments achieved by states, tribes, and local communities; PM RG1: Percentage of legal deadlines met by
EPA; and PM OP1: Number of operational processes improved.
3 PM TSCA1: Number of final EPA-initiated TSCA risk evaluations completed within statutory timelines; and PM
TSCA2: Number of final existing chemical TSCA risk management actions completed within statutory timelines.
4 PM DV: Percent of measured air quality improvement in counties not meeting the NAAQS from the 2016 baseline;
PM M92: Cumulative percentage reduction in the number of days with Air Quality Index (AQI) values over 100
since 2003, weighted by population and AQI value; PM NOX: Ozone Season emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx)
from electric power generation sources; PM SO 1: Remaining US Consumption of hydrochlorofluorocarbons
(HCFCs), chemicals that deplete the Earth's protective ozone layer, measured in tons of Ozone Depleting Potential
(ODP); PM NPDES-01: Percentage of high-priority state NPDES permits that are issued in the fiscal year; PM
NPDES-02: Percentage of high-priority EPA and state NPDES permits (including tribal) that are issued in the fiscal
year; PM 426: Number of compliance assurance actions in accordance with EPA's civil enforcement response
policies: PM F02: Percentage of FOIA requests completed within statutory deadlines; and PM PE1: Percentage of
permitting-related decisions issued within 6 months.
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nonattainment areas would remain at the end of FY 2019 (166 is the baseline number of
nonattainment areas that was defined in the FY 2018-2022 EPA Strategic Plan in the
beginning of FY 2018). At the end of FY 2019, 147 areas remained in nonattainment.
However, work was also completed during FY 2019 to redesignate four additional areas
that did not become effective until FY 2020 in October 2019. Looking ahead, EPA
projects redesignating a total of 15 nonattainment areas by the end of FY 2020 (including
the four redesignations that recently became effective in October 2019), which should
reduce the remaining amount of nonattainment areas to 132 by September 2020. Overall,
EPA is on track to meet its long-term performance goal of reducing the number of
nonattainment areas to 101 by FY 2022.
Empower communities to leverage EPA water infrastructure investments. By
September 30, 2019, EPA will increase by $16 billion the non-federal dollars leveraged by
EPA water infrastructure finance programs (Clean Water and Drinking Water State
Revolving Funds and the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act).
Met FY 2018-2019 target. Over the two-year time period, the Clean Water State Revolving
Fund (CW SRF), Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) and Water Infrastructure
Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) Programs leveraged more than $20.0 billion of non-
federal dollars, increasing the funds available to improve, repair, and modernize the
nation's water infrastructure. This exceeded the $16 billion goal and demonstrates the
powerful opportunity to leverage non-federal dollars. In addition to meeting the APG, EPA
met all of the contributing indicators: Engagements with the Water Infrastructure
Community; Tools, Training, and Resources Provided to the Water Infrastructure
Community; and State Revolving Fund (SRF) State Reviews completed. The success of
this metric is due to the collaborative efforts of EPA, states, and local communities.
Accelerate the pace of cleanups and return sites to beneficial use in their communities.
By September 30, 2019, EPA will make an additional 102 Superfund sites and 1,368
brownfields sites ready for anticipated use (RAU).
Missed FY 2018-2019 target. Over the two-year time period, EPA made 99 Superfund sites
RAU, 97% of the two-year goal of 102 sites, and 1,771 brownfields sites RAU, 133% of
the two-year goal of 1,368 sites.
The Superfund Task Force released its final report in September 2019. Several
recommendations were especially designed to advance progress toward RAU goals,
including: ensuring that site-wide RAU performance measure information is up-to-date and
readily accessible on the Superfund Redevelopment Initiative website
(https://www.epa.gov/superfund-redevelopment-initiative) and expanding the list of
confirmed site-wide RAU sites to include site reuse status (Rec 34); improving risk
communication with communities and stakeholders at Superfund sites (Rec 40); enhancing
engagement about cleanup actions at federal facilities (Rec 41); and engaging the National
Environmental Justice Advisory Council, under which a working group developed a series
of draft recommendations to identify barriers and opportunities related to cleanup and reuse
of Superfund sites (Rec 42).
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Over the two-year period, EPA used the ELMS deployment process and Lean techniques
to reduce brownfields data entry backlogs. In addition to undertaking an effort to reduce
the work package backlog, the Program established visual management practices and a
standard operating procedure to contact closed grant recipients and update accomplishment
data accordingly.
Meet new statutory requirements to improve the safety of chemicals in commerce. By
September 30, 2019, EPA will complete in accordance with statutory timelines (excluding
statutorily-allowable extensions): 100% of required EPA-initiated Toxic Substances
Control Act (TSCA) risk evaluations for existing chemicals; 100% of required TSCA risk
management actions for existing chemicals; and 80% of TSCA pre-manufacture notice
final determinations.
Missed FY 2018-2019 target; some data not available because there were no statutory
deadlines for TSCA risk evaluations or risk management actions in FY 2018-2019. Despite
the continuing need for recruitment and training of new staff for critical work, EPA is on
track toward meeting the long-term performance goals, with key milestones achieved or in
progress. In FY 2019, EPA released draft risk evaluations for four of the 10 chemicals on
the initial priority list (Pigment Violet-29, 1,4-Dioxane, Cyclic Aliphatic Bromide Cluster
[HBCD], 1-Bromopropane), and expects to finalize all 10 evaluations in FY 2020. EPA
also released for public comment proposed designations of 20 additional high-priority
chemicals for risk evaluation, along with 20 low-priority chemicals that will not be
evaluated at this time (the final designations are expected in FY 2020); and issued a
proposed rule covering five Persistent, Bioaccumulative and Toxic (PBT) chemicals, with
the final rule expected in December 2020.
Although substantially improved from FY 2018, the performance rate of all TSCA pre-
manufacture notice (PMN) final determinations completed within 90 days was 78% in FY
2019, slightly below the 80% target. Contributing factors included frequent submitter
requests for suspensions of review, increased complexity of the review process under
amended TSCA, and continuing need for recruitment and training of new staff. Given the
positive year-over-year trend, EPA expects to meet the long-term performance goal to
complete all PMN final determinations within 90 days by FY 2022. EPA expects
improvement by applying findings from the Lean assessments completed in FY 2018 and
FY 2019, introducing further information technology enhancements, and bringing
additional staff on board.
Increase environmental law compliance rate. Through September 30, 2019, EPA will
increase compliance by reducing the percentage of Clean Water Act (CWA) National
Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permittees in significant noncompliance
(SNC) with their permit limits to 25.7% from a baseline of 29.4%.
Met FY 2018-2019 target. EPA reduced the NPDES SNC rate from a FY 2018 baseline
rate of 29.4% to 25.0% at the end of FY 2019, exceeding the APG target. To achieve this
goal, the Agency established an EPA-state workgroup to develop and implement
694
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approaches for reducing the SNC rate in areas where EPA and/or authorized states can
have a significant impact. Building on initial workgroup efforts, the workgroup members
from EPA and 15 state government agencies convened a national meeting in spring 2019 to
work collaboratively on refining priority projects and longer-term implementation
strategies to achieve the established targets. EPA and states identified multiple approaches
for attacking this problem. Important over the two years of the APG was the effort to
improve national NPDES Program data quality and completeness through increased
permittee submission of monitoring reports and improved transfer of data from states. The
Agency will continue efforts to reduce the NPDES SNC rate by a full 50% as an OECA FY
2020-2023 National Compliance Initiative.
Accelerate permitting-related decisions. By September 30, 2019, EPA will reduce by
50% the number of permitting-related decisions that exceed six months.
Met FY 2018-2019 target. EPA conducted comprehensive Lean business process
improvement events to streamline and optimize the Agency's key permitting programs,
reducing the number of permitting-related decisions that exceed six months by 53% in FY
2019 and 65% since June 2018, exceeding the 50% goal. Looking forward, EPA plans
to: finalize a national strategy to eliminate the NPDES permit backlog; continue to identify
NPDES permits that are delayed due to Endangered Species Act consultation, and actions
that may be taken to streamline the process; and expand the scope of the APG to include
backlogged air permits (measured against statutory timelines) and backlogged renewals for
existing permits.
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Evidence and Evaluation
Summaries of program evaluations completed during FY 2019, and additional FY 2019
contributions to EPA's portfolio of evidence, are available at
https://www.epa.gov/planandbudget/results. EPA uses program evaluations and other evidence to
ensure programs are meeting Agency goals, to improve mission delivery, and to utilize evidence
in decision making. Program evaluations and other evidence help EPA identify activities that
benefit human health and the environment, provide the roadmap needed to replicate successes, and
identify areas needing improvement. This is particularly important for fostering transparency and
accountability.
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UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGEMCY
WASHW5TON. D.C 2046*5
i hi; KtHiHiS rn*fOH
Reliability of the EPA's Performance Data
I attest to the reliability and completeness of the performance data presented in the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency's Fiscal Year 2019 Annual Performance Report. Because
improvements in human health and the environment may not become immediately apparent, there
might be delays between the actions we have taken and results we can measure. Additionally, we
cannot provide results data for some of our performance measures for this reporting year. When
possible, however, we have portrayed trend data to illustrate progress over time. We also report
fl 1 ^ ' ,rs that became available in FY 2019.
/Liu
Andrew R. Wheeler
Administrator
Date
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Key to Multiyear Table Annual Performance Goal Data Presentation
(PM #) Annual performance goal language here.
Targets by Fiscal
Year (Line)
FY 2014
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017
FY 2018
FY 2019
FY 2020
FY 2021
Units
Preferred
Direction
Target
No Target
Established
13
13
12
11
9
Sites
Increase
Actual
12
11
13
10
9
liliT
Gray = No Annual
Performance Goal;
No Data
Purple =
No Target
Green = 100%
of Target Met
Yellow = 75-99%
of Target Met
Red = <75%
of Target Met
White (future
year) = No Data
White (past year) = No Annual
Performance Goal; Data Available
Actuals by Fiscal
Year (Bars)
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GOAL 1: A Cleaner, Healthier Environment
Goal 1 at a Glance
A Cleaner, Healthier Environment: Deliver a cleaner, safer, and healthier environment for all Americans and future generations by carrying out the
Agency's core mission.
FY 2019 Enacted Budget (in thousands) by goal and objective
Goal 1 A Cleaner, Healthier Environment
Obj 1.1 Improve Air Quality
$6,836,276
(of $8,849,488
EPA total)
$813,367
Obj 1.2 Provide for Clean and Safe Water
$4,432,022
Obj 1.3 Revitalize Land and Prevent Contamination
$1,348,790
Obj 1.4 Ensure Safety of Chemicals in the Marketplace $242,097
Performance toward target by objective
Number of measures by percent of target achieved
~ 100% of target met (G)
~ 75-99% of target met (Y)
~ <75% of target met (R)
~ No target (NT)
2 (Y)
Obi 1.1
Obi 1.2
Obi 1.3
Obi 1.4
699
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GOAL 1: A Cleaner, Healthier Environment
Objective 1.1 - Improve Air Quality: Work with states and tribes to accurately measure air quality and ensure that more Americans are
living and working in areas that meet high air quality standards.
Performance toward target over time
Number of measures by percent of target achieved
~ 75-99% of target met (Y)
2 (Y)
2 (Y)
FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017 FY 2018 FY 2019
Declining National Air Pollutant Concentration
Averages (% above or below NAAQS)
100
50
-50
Most Recent Nationa Standard
-100
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
¦Pb (3-month)
-N02 (1-hour)
-PM2.5 (24-hour)
-CO (8-hour)
-03 (8-hour)
- PM10 (24-hour)
2015
-N02 (annual)
-PM2.5 (annual)
-S02 (1-hour)
Summary of progress toward strategic objective:
Redesignated 12 areas to attainment for various National Ambient Air Quality Standards
(NAAQS). Also took final action to redesignate four additional areas with effective dates
that occurred in October 2019. EPA is on track to meet its long-term performance goal of
101 by FY 2022.
For the 2016-2018 period, 80% of monitored counties in the U.S. met the 2015 ozone
NAAQS, and 98% of monitored counties met the 2010 sulfur dioxide (S02) NAAQS.
Took timely action on State Implementation Plans (SIPs) consistent with Clean Air Act
(CAA) deadlines and reducing the SIP backlog by working closely with state and local air
agencies. Acted on over 360 SIPs, 165 of which were backlogged.
Published Air Trends Report which shows combined emissions of six key pollutants
dropped by 74%, while the U.S. economy grew more than three times between 1970-2018
(see graph on the lower left).
Issued over 4,700 certificates of conformity for engines, vehicles, and complementary
pieces of equipment allowing manufacturers to enter products into commerce in the U.S.
Issued Automotive Trends Report on new light-duty vehicle data and auto manufacturers'
performance in meeting national standards; demonstrating auto manufacturers' continued
innovation to increase fuel economy and reduce pollution.
Issued 4th Diesel Emissions Reduction Act Report to Congress showing 67,300 legacy
diesel vehicles replaced/retrofitted since 2008.
Delivered a reduction of 92% in S02 and 84% in nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions from
1990 levels through the Acid Rain Program and reduction of 91% in S02 and 73% in
NOx from 2005 levels through the Cross-State Air Pollution Rule.
Issued Affordable Clean Energy rule to reduce carbon dioxide (C02) emissions while
providing affordable and reliable energy; EPA expects U.S. power sector C02 emissions
to fall by up to 35% below 2005 levels resulting in annual net benefits of $120-730M.
Submitted Final Safer Affordable Fuel-Efficient Vehicles Rule to adjust national
automobile fuel economy and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions standards.
Launched Cleaner Trucks Initiative to further decrease NOx emissions and help
communities attain NAAQS while reducing regulatory burden to industry.
Saved approximately 370B kWh of electricity and avoided $30B in energy costs with
GHG emission reductions of 290M metric tons through ENERGY STAR.
Challenges:
While EPA is making steady and expected progress redesignating areas to NAAQS
attainment, under the CAA, states are responsible for initiating the redesignation process,
a process that demands time and resources from states.
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GOAL 1: A Cleaner, Healthier Environment
Long-Term Performance Goal - By September 30, 2022, reduce the number of nonattainment areas to 1015.
Annual performance goals that support this long-term performance goal:
(PM NA1) Number of Nonattainment Areas.
FY 2014
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017
FY 2018
FY 2019
FY 2020
FY 2021
Units
Preferred
Direction
liir
Target
155
138
132
121
Nonattain-
ment Areas
Below
Target
Actual
190
182
176
166
159
147
Key Takeaways:
In FY 2019, EPA took final action on state requests to redesignate 16 nonattainment areas to attainment. The effective date for 12 of these areas occurred in FY 2019, and the
effective date for four of those areas occurred in the first month of FY 2020.
The original FY 2019 target of 138 was based on projections that were made prior to FY 2018. Based on additional analysis and discussions EPA held with air agencies, EPA
expected to reach 146 remaining areas at the end of FY 2019.
Focusing efforts on reducing the number of nonattaimnent areas helps ensure that states and EPA, in the spirit of maintaining effective partnerships, prioritize taking timely
and necessary actions to improve air quality in nonattaimnent areas through the implementation of permanent and enforceable pollution control measures, so that states can
submit, and EPA can approve, redesignation requests for areas once they attain a NAAQS.
Looking ahead, EPA will: (1) work with states to update FY 2020-2022 nonattaimnent area projections to identify which states intend to submit approvable redesignation
requests; and (2) continue to encourage states with nonattaimnent areas that are eligible for redesignation to attaimnent to develop and submit approvable redesignation
requests and accompanying 10-year maintenance plans, as required by the CAA.
Metric Details: This measure tracks the status of 166 areas that were designated nonattaimnent and listed in 40 CFR Part 81 as of the end of FY 2017. Areas designated to
nonattaimnent after October 1, 2017 are not included. Nonattaimnent areas are areas that EPA determined do not meet a primary or secondary NAAQS, or that contribute to air
quality in a nearby area that does not meet a non-revoked primary or secondary NAAQS. Areas are considered redesignated based on the effective date of the redesignation. For
multi-state nonattaimnent areas, all state portions of the area must be redesignated to attaimnent for the area to be removed from the list of nonattaimnent areas. Under the CAA,
states are responsible for initiating the redesignation process and EPA's authority to approve a state's request to redesignate nonattaimnent areas hinges on the state meeting the
minimum requirements of the CAA, which include: (1) a demonstration that the area has air quality that is attaining the NAAQS; (2) establishing that pollution reductions are due
to implementing permanent and enforceable measures; (3) a 10-year maintenance plan that includes contingency measures to be triggered in the event of a re-violation of the
NAAQS; and (4) satisfying any other applicable and outstanding attaimnent planning and emissions control requirements. This measure tracked progress toward a FY 2018-2019
Agency Priority Goal (APG) and tracks progress toward a FY 2020-2021 APG.
5 The baseline is 166 nonattaimnent areas as of 10/1/2017.
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GOAL 1: A Cleaner, Healthier Environment
(PM CRT) Number of certificates of conformity issued that demonstrate that the respective engine, vehicle, equipment, component, or system conforms to all of the
applicable emission requirements and may be entered into commerce.
Preferred
FY 2014
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017
FY 2018
FY 2019
FY 2020
FY 2021
Units
Direction
Mil
Target
5,200
5,000
5,000
5,000
Certificates
Above
Actual
4,225
4,360
4,453
5,109
4,869
4,711
Target
1 111 1 1
Key Takeaways:
The total number of certificates issued by EPA in FY 2019 was 158 less than in FY 2018 (when 4,869 certificates were issued) and reflects approximately 70 fewer
manufacturer applications for certification.
EPA strives to issue vehicle and engine certificates of conformity in a timely manner and in pace with the numbers of requests received.
Metric Details: This measure tracks the number of certificates of conformity issued in a given year. The CAA requires that engines, vehicles, equipment, components, or systems
receive a certificate of conformity which demonstrates compliance with the applicable requirements prior to introduction to U.S. commerce. EPA reviews all submitted requests
and issues certificates of conformity when the manufacturer demonstrates compliance with all applicable requirements. This measure illustrates EPA's annual certification
workload. The number of certification requests is dictated by the product planning of manufacturers and will fluctuate from year to year.
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GOAL 1: A Cleaner, Healthier Environment
Objective 1.2 - Provide for Clean and Safe Water: Ensure waters are clean through improved water infrastructure and, in partnership with
states and tribes, sustainably manage programs to support drinking water, aquatic ecosystems, and recreational, economic, and subsistence
activities.
Performance toward target over time
Number of measures by percent of target achieved
~ 100% of target met (G)
~ 75-99% of target met (Y)
~ No target (NT)
1 (NT)
2(G)
2 (Y)
3(G)
FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017 FY 2018 FY 2019
Summary of progress toward strategic objective:
Developed and issued EPA's comprehensive cross-agency Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl
Substances (PFAS) Action Plan (https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2019-
02/documents/pfas action plan 021319 508compliant l.pdf) to help states and
communities address these emerging threats and protect the nation's drinking water.
Continued implementation of the Federal Lead Action Plan
(https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2Q18-
12/documents/fedactionplan lead final.pdf). including release of the State Lead
Testing in School and Child Care Program Drinking Water Testing Grant
implementation document describing requirements for states and territories.
The Agency also proposed revisions to the Lead and Copper Rule.
Successfully met $8 billion target for non-federal dollars leveraged by EPA water
infrastructure finance programs. The Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation
Act (WIFIA) Program closed nine transactions for over $2.5 billion in loans to help
finance nearly $6 billion in water infrastructure projects and create over 10,000 jobs.
Reduced the backlog of new National Pollution Discharge Elimination System
(NPDES) permit applications from 63 to 26, a 59% reduction and reduced the
backlog of NPDES permit renewals from 456 to 373, an 18% reduction.
Reduced the number of square miles of watershed areas that contained impaired
waters in 2018 by over 12,700 square miles.
Challenges:
Nutrient pollution and Harmful Algal Blooms continue to be a challenge. EPA is
taking a multi-faceted approach to address nutrients, including coordination with
U.S. Department of Agriculture on market-based approaches; efforts on affordable
livestock manure recycling technology; a new water quality trading policy
memorandum; Hypoxia Task Force investments in the Mississippi River/Atchafalaya
River Basin; and workshops for state permit writers.
The number of drinking water systems out of compliance with health-based
standards increased in FY 2019 due to noncompliance with newer requirements. In
addition to aging infrastructure, degradation of sources of drinking water, extreme
weather events and accidental and intentional incidents continue to challenge
drinking water systems.
Drinking water systems, especially small systems, often have limited technical
expertise to address operational issues. This contributes to violations for disinfection
byproducts, which could result in lead in the distribution system.
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GOAL 1: A Cleaner, Healthier Environment
Long-Term Performance Goal - By September 30, 2022, reduce the number of community water systems out of compliance with health-
based standards to 2,7006.
Annual performance goal that supports this long-term performance goal:
(PM DW-01) Community water systems out of compliance with health-based standards.
FY 2014
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017
FY 2018
FY 2019
FY 2020
FY 2021
Units
Preferred
Direction
1111
Target
3,510
3,380
3,280
3,060
CWSs
Below
r
Actual
4,682
5,050
4,817
3,508
3,480
3,547
Target
111111
Key Takeaways:
Over 93% of the population served by community water systems (CWSs) received drinking water that meets all health-based standards.
While over 50% (1,982/3,508) of the systems out of compliance in FY 2017 returned to compliance as of September 2019, the total number of CWSs with a health-based
violation increased to 3,547 in FY 2019 due to new violations of the Stage 2 Disinfection By-Product Rule, Ground Water Rule, and Revised Total Colifonn Rule.
To address compliance challenges, EPA continues to implement countermeasures such as conducting trainings for states and systems, conducting file reviews at the state to
help states make accurate compliance determination and providing technical assistance to state staff to address compliance problems.
EPA, in addition to providing Public Water System Supervision grants to all states, is dedicating additional resources in Regions 6 and 7 whose states comprise 36% of the
national noncompliance of health-based violations. EPA will use these resources to address the underlying compliance challenges in these states by providing direct technical
assistance to systems in violation.
Metric Details: This measure tracks CWSs out of compliance with the health-based National Primary Drinking Water Regulations (Maximum Contaminant Level or treatment
technique) during any part of the year. A CWS is a public water system that supplies water to the same population year-round. There are approximately 50,000 CWSs. Data are
derived from the Safe Drinking Water Information System Federal Data Warehouse (SDWIS-FED), which contains information about violations by public water systems as
reported to EPA by the primacy agencies (states and tribes with EPA-delegated enforcement responsibility).
6 Baseline is 3,508 community water systems out of compliance with health-based standards as of FY 2017. (Footnote updated from FY 2018-2022 EPA Strategic Plan published
February 12, 2018.)
704
-------
GOAL 1: A Cleaner, Healthier Environment
Long-Term Performance Goal - By September 30, 2022, increase by $40 billion the non-federal dollars leveraged by EPA water
infrastructure finance programs (CWSRF, DWSRF and WIFIA)7.
Annual performance goal that supports this long-term performance goal:
(PMINFRA-01) Number of non-federal dollars leveraged by EPA water infrastructure finance programs (CWSRF, DWSRF and WIFIA).
FY 2014
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017
FY 2018
FY 2019
FY 2020
FY 2021
Units
Preferred
Direction
III
r
Target
8.0
8.0
8.0
8.0
Billions of
Dollars
Above
Target
Actual
5.6
5.3
8.1
8.6
9.7
10.3
Key Takeaways:
In FY 2019, EPA leveraged more than $10.3 billion in non-federal dollars, increasing the funds available to improve, repair and modernize the nation's water infrastructure.
This exceeded the $8 billion goal and demonstrates the power of EPA's water infrastructure programs to leverage funding from non-federal resources.
The Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) Programs conducted final review in all 50 states and Puerto Rico. The
state reviews are an opportunity for EPA to discuss national priorities with the state-run programs, including increasing the non-federal dollars leveraged by EPA water
infrastructure finance programs.
Metric Details: Combined, the three primary water infrastructure programs, DWSRF, CWSRF, and WIFIA Program, represent the largest federal source of funds to address this
critical component of our nation's drinking water and clean water infrastructure. SRF data are tracked in the CWSRF Benefits Reporting System and DWSRF Project Reporting
System. The baseline does not include WIFIA leveraged dollars because no loans were closed prior to FY 2018. Targets represent annual increments needed to reach the long-term
performance goal by FY 2022. This measure tracked progress toward a FY 2018-2019 Agency Priority Goal (APG) and tracks progress toward a FY 2020-2021 APG.
Long-Term Performance Goal - By September 30, 2022, reduce the number of square miles of watershed with surface water not meeting
standards by 37,000 square miles8.
Annual performance goals that support this long-term performance goal:
(PM SWP-01) Watersheds with surface waters not meeting standards (cumulative).
FY 2014
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017
FY 2018
FY 2019
FY 2020
FY 2021
Units
Preferred
Direction
No Trend
Data
Target
No Target
Established
497,728
564,536
555,536
Square Miles
Below
Target
Actual
N/A
493,930
7 Baseline is $32 billion in non-federal dollars leveraged from the CWSRF and DWSRF between FY 2013 and FY 2017 (i.e., loans made from recycled loan repayments, bond
proceeds, state match, and interest earnings). The baseline does not include WIFIA leveraged dollars because no loans were closed prior to FY 2018. (Footnote updated from FY
2018-2022 EPA Strategic Plan published February 12, 2018.)
8 Baseline is 587,536 square miles of impaired waters as of August 30, 2019. (Footnote updated from FY 2018-2022 EPA Strategic Plan published February 12, 2018.)
705
-------
GOAL 1: A Cleaner, Healthier Environment
Key Takeaways:
Exceeded the Agency's ambitious target for reducing the square miles of watersheds with surface waters not meeting standards. Over 12,700 square miles of watershed area
that contained impaired waters in FY 2018 are now meeting water quality standards.
Improvements in EPA's Assessment, Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) Tracking and Implementation System (ATTAINS) allowed states to submit their integrated reports
electronically and allowed EPA to automatically compile water quality data.
Metric Details: Beginning in FY 2020, this measure tracks the progress of water quality standards attainment in the 587,536 square miles of waters previously identified as
impaired in a state Integrated Report as of August 30, 2019. In FY 2019, the measure tracked progress using a baseline of 506,728 square miles of waters identified as impaired in
a state Integrated Report as of December 31, 2018. Progress will be evident by a downward trend in previously impaired waters attaining water quality standards. Water quality
standards attaimnent means that (1) the impairments have been effectively removed; and (2) the waterbody now either fully supports the use or meets the water quality criterion for
that particular pollutant or stressor for which it had been impaired. Data are tracked in ATTAINS. States submit to EPA their Integrated Report every two years, which includes
information on the status of their waters, and state geospatial data are used to calculate results.
(PM SWP-02) Watersheds with surface waters not meeting standards because of nutrients (square miles).
FY 2014
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017
FY 2018
FY 2019
FY 2020
FY 2021
Units
Preferred
Direction
No Trend
Data
Target
192,096
Square Miles
Below
Target
Actual
Metric Details: This measure tracks the reduction in the baseline of 202,096 square miles of waters identified as impaired due to nutrients in a state Integrated Report as of August
30, 2019. Progress will be evident by a downward trend in previously impaired waters now attaining water quality standards. Water quality standards attaimnent means that (1) the
impairments have been effectively removed; and (2) the waterbody now either fully supports the use or meets the water quality criterion for nutrients for which it had been
impaired. Data are tracked in ATTAINS. States submit an Integrated Report to EPA every two years, including information on the status of state waters. EPA uses state geospatial
data to calculate results for this measure. There is no FY 2020 target because this is a new measure in FY 2021.
(PM TMDL-02) Percentage of priority TMDLs, alternative restoration plans, and protection approaches in place.
FY 2014
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017
FY 2018
FY 2019
FY 2020
FY 2021
Units
Preferred
Direction
Target
50
67
84
Percent
Above
Target
Actual
9
14
33.3
51.2
Numerator
8,822
14,045
33,194
48,544
Square Miles
Denominator
101,141
99,424
99,415
94,806
Key Takeaways:
In FY 2019, 42 of 56 states and territories updated their long-term Clean Water Act (CWA) Section 303(d) Program vision priorities to better reflect shifting water quality
needs and goals.
In FY 2019, EPA continued to improve ATTAINS in order to automatically track and calculate alternative restoration or protection plan in place.
Metric Details: This measure tracks state priority waters with a TMDL, alternative restoration or protection plan in place. EPA, states and tribes cooperatively developed A Long-
Term Vision for Assessment, Restoration and Protection under the CWA Section 303(d) Program, which encourages focused attention on priority waters and acknowledges that
states have flexibility in using available tools - TMDLs, alternative restoration plans, and protection approaches - to restore and protect water quality. The calculation method
706
-------
GOAL 1: A Cleaner, Healthier Environment
provides 0.5 credit for plans under development and full credit when EPA approves a plan. The goal is to have 100% of priority waters with plans approved or accepted by FY
2022. Data are tracked in ATTAINS. EPA does not expect the universe of waters associated with these long-term priorities to substantially change from FY 2016 to FY 2022.
However, the Agency recognizes that some adjustments may be needed due to unforeseen circumstances or planning processes.
(PM NPDES-03) Number of existing EPA-issued NPDES permits in backlog.
FY 2014
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017
FY 2018
FY 2019
FY 2020
FY 2021
Units
Preferred
Direction
No Trend
Data
Target
360
280
200
Permits
Below
Target
Actual
456
373
Key Takeaways:
EPA reduced its backlog of existing NPDES permits by 18% in FY 2019, narrowly missing the target, and by 32% from the high point in May 2018.
Improving the timing for issuance and reissuance of NPDES permits provides greater certainty for the regulated community and ensures that permits reflect the most up-to-
date requirements and scientific information to protect water quality across the nation.
Business process improvements implemented in FY 2019 will facilitate reduction of the backlog and help the Program meet ambitious future year goals.
Metric Details: This measure tracks existing EPA-issued NPDES individual permits that are administratively continued because they have passed their expiration date and are
awaiting reissuance. The CWA limits the length of NPDES permits to five years. However, a permit can be administratively continued if the facility has submitted an application
for reissuance and EPA does not renew the permit before its expiration date through no fault of the permittee. This means that the conditions of the expired permit continue in force
until the effective date of the new or reissued permit. For purposes of this measure, permits are removed from the backlog as soon as the Agency takes final action on the permit
(issuance or denial). Data are tracked in EPA's Integrated Compliance Information System (ICIS)-NPDES Database.
707
-------
GOAL 1: A Cleaner, Healthier Environment
Objective 1.3 - Revitalize Land and Prevent Contamination: Provide better leadership and management to properly clean up contaminated
sites to revitalize and return the land back to communities.
Performance toward target overtime
Number of measures by percent of target achieved
~ 100% of target met (G)
~ 75-99% of target met (Y)
~ <75% of target met (R)
2 (Y)
4(G)
1(Y)
6(G)
3(Y)
4(G)
4 (Y)
3(G)
1 (Y)
3(Y)
7(G)
6(G)
1(R)
1(R)
FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017 FY 2018 FY 2019
Summary of progress toward strategic objective:
The Superfund Task Force released its final report
(https://www.epa.gov/superfund/superfund-task-force-recommendations-and-
accomplishments) in September 2019. Over the past two years, EPA used the Task Force
recommendations to accelerate Superfund cleanups, to expedite reuse and to
institutionalize Task Force-related performance measures and lessons learned.
Awarded more than $110 million in grants to brownfields communities. Leveraged $2,287
billion and 13,476 jobs through assessment, cleanup and redevelopment.
In FY 2019, EPA successfully made sites Ready for Anticipated Use (RAU) under its
cleanup programs: 48 Superfund site-wide RAU; 910 brownfields RAU; 127 Resource
Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) RAU; 8,358 Leaking Underground Storage
Tanks (LUST) RAU.
Challenges:
Complex enviromnental problems, such as the presence or perceived presence of
hazardous substances in soil, sediment and groundwater, persist at many contaminated
properties, and their actual or perceived presence can threaten the health of American
families and hamper economic redevelopment.
The potential risks of reduced capacity for federal, state, tribal and local enviromnental
land and emergency management programs drives EPA to develop operational
improvements to increase effectiveness and efficiency. In FY 2019, the Agency used the
EPA Lean Management System (ELMS) to target opportunities for progress and used
measurement and collaboration to deliver continuous improvement; through ELMS, EPA
addressed more than 25 different processes supporting cleanup programs.
EPA's ambitious 11,200 end-of-year target for the number of LUST sites that meet risk-
based standards for human exposure and groundwater migration has proven especially
challenging. EPA has intensively engaged state partners to identify long-term strategies to
meet the long-term performance goal by FY 2022. In FY 2019, LUST cleanups increased
to 8,358 representing the first annual increase in such cleanups since FY 2013.
Emerging contaminants present EPA with strategic risks, which can be a factor delaying
cleanup timelines. To address these risks, EPA is applying developing science to update
its sampling, analytic methods and guidance, as appropriate. The Agency also is
implementing its Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) Action Plan, which
includes actions to: undertake rulemaking to designate and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA)
and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) as hazardous substances, develop sampling and
analytic methods on various PFAS analytes, and understand those analytes' toxic effects.
708
-------
GOAL 1: A Cleaner, Healthier Environment
Long-Term Performance Goal - By September 30, 2022, make 255 additional Superfund sites ready for anticipated use (RAU) site-wide9.
Annual performance goals that support this long-term performance goal:
(PM S10) Number of Superfund sites made ready for anticipated use site-wide.
FY 2014
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017
FY 2018
FY 2019
FY 2020
FY 2021
Units
Preferred
Direction
fmjF
Target
55
45
45
45
51
51
51
51
Sites
Above
Actual
45
45
41
43
51
48
Target
¦ 11111
Key Takeaways:
In FY 2018-2019, the cumulative total number of Superfund sites achieving site-wide RAU was 99, an accomplishment representing 97% of the two-year goal of 102 sites.
By the end of FY 2019, EPA had designated 935 Superfund sites as having achieved site-wide RAU.
A government funding lapse delayed work at sites.
The Superfund Task Force released its final report in September 2019. To ensure integration of Task Force programmatic changes, EPA identified 15 performance metrics by
which the Agency will evaluate its progress in implementing Task Force-related lessons learned.
Metric Details: The sitewide ready for anticipated use (SWRAU) measure tracks EPA's progress in cleaning up and preparing Superfund sites for reuse (both private and federal
facility), while ensuring human health and enviromnental protection. It measures the number of construction complete National Priorities List (NPL) or Superfund Alternative
Approach (SAA) sites for which all: (1) remedy decision document (e.g., record of decision [ROD]) cleanup goals have been achieved for media that may affect a site's current
and reasonably anticipated future land use, so that there are no unacceptable risks; and (2) institutional or other controls required in remedy decision document(s) have been put in
place. EPA documents the SWRAU determination directly in the Superfund Enterprise Management System (SEMS) once a site meets all required criteria and the appropriate
EPA regional personnel have approved the determination. The site universe tracked for this measure includes final and deleted NPL sites and, since FY 2014, non-NPL sites with
SAA agreements. EPA's universe of sites that have met the SWRAU criteria has a net total of 935 sites, including 923 final and deleted NPL sites and 12 non-NPL sites with SAA
agreements in place. As of the end of FY 2019 there were 1,338 final NPL sites and 48 non-NPL sites with active SAA agreements. Targets represent annual increments needed to
reach the long-term performance goal by FY 2022. This measure tracked progress toward a FY 2018-2019 Agency Priority Goal (APG) and tracks progress toward a FY 2020-
2021 APG.
(PM 170) Number of remedial action projects completed at Superfund sites.
FY 2014
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017
FY 2018
FY 2019
FY 2020
FY 2021
Units
Preferred
Direction
[|IT|^
Target
115
105
105
105
95
95
80
80
Projects
Above
Actual
115
104
105
97
87
89
Target
1 111 1 1
Key Takeaways:
The performance results reflect a variety of challenges, including the universe of remaining sites' complexity, emerging contaminants and changing screening/toxicity values.
More than 68% of remedial action project completions (RAPCs) over the last five years were federal facility and Potentially Responsible Party (PRP)-lead projects; EPA is
dependent on remedial action work performed by third parties at these sites. Also, over the last five years EPA-funded teams performed work on more than 31% of RAPCs.
9 By the end of FY 2017, 836 Superfund sites had been made RAU site-wide.
709
-------
GOAL 1: A Cleaner, Healthier Environment
Challenges include limited construction seasons, reduced work force (attrition), uncertain remedial action funding and unpredictable weather-related events/disasters (e.g.,
hurricanes, fires).
EPA updated the FY 2018 actual from 86 to 87, due to a data correction.
Metric Details: By tracking the completion of a discrete scope of Superfund cleanup activities (for both private and federal facility sites), this measure documents incremental
progress in reducing risk to human health and the enviromnent. Multiple remedial action projects may be necessary to achieve sitewide construction completion. EPA captures
regional RAPC data in SEMS.
(PM 151) Number of Superfund sites with human exposures brought under control.
FY 2014
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017
FY 2018
FY 2019
FY 2020
FY 2021
Units
Preferred
Direction
¦ I
Target
10
9
9
9
8
12
10
10
Sites
Above
Actual
9
10
12
24
32
17
Target
111111
Key Takeaways:
Pursuant to Superfund Task Force recommendations, EPA maintained an elevated national emphasis on sites where human exposure was not under control; the Task Force's
attention on these sites contributed to FY 2019 achievements.
Metric Details: This measure documents progress achieved in controlling unacceptable human exposures to contamination at both private and federal facility Superfund sites and
denotes a site-wide accomplishment. The human exposure determination at a site can change over time as conditions across portions (operable units) of a site change. EPA regional
offices enter human exposure determinations and supporting data into SEMS. It is important to note that fiscal year results reflect a net accomplishment as sites can shift between
human exposure under control to human exposure not under control or human exposure insufficient data. The status change often occurs when a previously unknown exposure
pathway (e.g., vapor intrusion) or contaminant is discovered, and a reasonable expectation exists that people could be exposed or that there is insufficient data to make such a
determination until further investigation takes place.
(PM 137) Number of Superfund removals completed.
FY 2014
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017
FY 2018
FY 2019
FY 2020
FY 2021
Units
Preferred
Direction
HThw
Target
275
275
275
175
175
141
141
Removals
Above
Tr
Actual
278
226
255
242
233
Target
11111
Key Takeaways:
EPA responds to threats as they arise; targets reflect best professional estimates.
The experience and expertise of EPA's On-Scene Coordinators allows the Agency to quickly and effectively respond to emergencies as they occur.
Metric Details: This measure is a tabulation of Comprehensive Enviromnental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) removal-related hazardous waste cleanups,
known as Superfund removal actions, including those that are Superfund-lead and PRP-lead. There is no pre-established universe of removal sites, as removal actions take place
after a release lias occurred. Data are tracked in SEMS.
710
-------
GOAL 1: A Cleaner, Healthier Environment
Long-Term Performance Goal - By September 30, 2022, make 3,420 additional brownfields sites RAU10.
Annual performance goals that support this long-term performance goal:
(PM B30) Number of brownfields sites made ready for anticipated use.
FY 2014
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017
FY 2018
FY 2019
FY 2020
FY 2021
Units
Preferred
Direction
H.. II
Target
550
550
600
600
684
684
684
684
Sites
Above
fffl
Actual
639
668
547
531
861
910
Target
Key Takeaways:
In FY 2018-2019, the cumulative total for brownfields RAU was 1,771 sites, which is 133% of the two-year APG of 1,368 sites.
From FY 2006 through FY 2019, 7,741 brownfields properties/sites were made RAU. EPA continued a data cleanup initiative that allowed the Agency to exceed this year's
target. This initiative reduced the data backlog and will ensure timely reporting of future data.
Results are dependent on many factors outside of EPA's control, and are influenced by market conditions and community decisions.
Metric Details: This measure tracks the number of properties/sites benefiting from EPA brownfields funding that have been assessed and determined not to require cleanup, or
where cleanup has been completed and institutional controls are in place if required, as reported by cooperative agreement recipients into the Assessment, Cleanup and
Redevelopment Exchange System (ACRES) database. This activity is expected to result in additional sites available for productive reuse, while also helping to quantify the impact
of funding from EPA's Brownfields Program. Targets represent annual increments needed to reach the long-term performance goal by FY 2022. This measure tracked progress
toward a FY 2018-2019 APG and tracks progress toward a FY 2020-2021 APG.
(PM B37) Billions of dollars of cleanup and redevelopment funds leveraged at brownfields sites.
FY 2014
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017
FY 2018
FY 2019
FY 2020
FY 2021
Units
Preferred
Direction
ihilJ-
Target
1.2
1.1
1.1
1.1
1.1
1.3
1.3
1.3
Billions of
Above
r
Actual
1.54
1.71
1.47
1.7
2.2
2.3
Dollars
Target
111111
Key Takeaways:
EPA continued a data cleanup initiative that allowed the Agency to exceed this year's target. This initiative reduced the data backlog and will ensure timely reporting of future
data.
Results are dependent on many factors outside of EPA's control, and are influenced by market conditions and community decisions
Metric Details: This measure tracks the number of additional dollars leveraged by assessment or cleanup activities conducted with EPA brownfields funding, as reported by
cooperative agreement recipients at a specific property into the ACRES database.
111 From FY 2006 through the end of FY 2017, 5,993 brownfields properties/sites had been made RAU. (Footnote updated frnvaFY 2018-2022 EPA Strategic Plan.)
711
-------
GOAL 1: A Cleaner, Healthier Environment
Long-Term Performance Goal - By September 30, 2022, make 536 additional Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) corrective
action facilities RAU11.
Annual performance goals that support this long-term performance goal:
(PM RSRAU) Number of RCRA corrective action facilities made ready for anticipated use.
FY 2014
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017
FY 2018
FY 2019
FY 2020
FY 2021
Units
Preferred
Direction
¦i iK
Target
75
91
117
133
Facilities
Above
MM
Actual
84
93
75
72
117
127
Target
¦ 11111
Key Takeaways:
In FY 2018-2019, the cumulative total for RCRA RAU was 244 sites, which is 147% of the two-year goal of 166 sites.
EPA exceeded the target through improved data processing for previously unlogged sites.
BytheendofFY 2019, 1,476 RCRA corrective action facilities had been made RAU site-wide.
Metric Details: This measure tracks the number of RCRA corrective action facilities made RAU. To be determined RAU, facilities must meet the following criteria: human
exposure under control; final cleanup goals achieved for media that would affect the anticipated use; and if needed, controls in place to ensure long-term protectiveness. The
universe for this measure was established in FY 2009 and includes the 3,779 facilities subject to RCRA corrective action. Information is entered into the RCRAInfo database by
authorized states and/or EPA regional offices overseeing cleanups. Targets represent annual increments needed to reach the long-term performance goal by FY 2022. EPA
increased the FY 2020 target from 107 to 117 based on recent results.
(PM CA5RC) Number of RCRA corrective action facilities with final remedies constructed.
FY 2014
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017
FY 2018
FY 2019
FY 2020
FY 2021
Units
Preferred
Direction
mill
Target
98
98
98
Facilities
Above
Target
Actual
56
60
64
67
70
80
Key Takeaways:
EPA made progress in FY 2018 and FY 2019 by applying Lean improvements to the RCRA Facilities Investigation (RFI) and Remedy Selection processes.
EPA did miss its ambitious target for FY2019. As part of the ELMS process, EPA is working to develop regional strategies to address process issues and share lessons learned.
Metric Details: This measure tracks the number of RCRA corrective action facilities with final remedies constructed. The universe for this measure was established in 2009 and
includes the 3,779 facilities subject to RCRA corrective action. Information is entered into RCRAInfo by authorized states and/or EPA regional offices overseeing cleanups. This
measure tracks a mid-term step in the progression toward completing facility cleanup.
11 From FY 1987 through FY 2017, 1,232 of the universe of 3,779 high priority RCRA corrective action facilities had been made RAU site-wide. (Footnote updated from FY 2018-
2022 EPA Strategic Plan.)
712
-------
GOAL 1: A Cleaner, Healthier Environment
(PM HW5) Number of permit renewals issued at hazardous waste facilities.
FY 2014
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017
FY 2018
FY 2019
FY 2020
FY 2021
Units
Preferred
Direction
HlIlT
Target
64
64
105
105
Facilities
Above
Target
Actual
110
100
89
125
109
124
Key Takeaways:
EPA achieved 124 permit renewals which was 194% the FY 2019 target of 64.
At the end of FY 2019, 992 (74%) of a universe of 1,330 permitted facilities had up-to-date permits.
Metric Details: This measure tracks RCRA hazardous waste permit renewals or clean-closures in the universe of permitted facilities using EPA's RCRAInfo system. This does not
include all permit maintenance since permit modifications cannot be projected and are not included. Maintaining up-to-date permits ensures that permitted facilities have consistent
and protective standards to prevent release. Proper standards for waste management can protect human health, prevent land contamination/degradation and other releases, and
avoid future cleanups and associated costs. EPA increased its FY 2020 target from 64 to 105 as a result of efficiencies implemented. For example, EPA used Lean tools and ELMS
to focus on reducing the permit backlog. As a result, some states and regions adopted new practices, such as pre-application meetings and earlier application deadlines, that led to
permitting program efficiencies.
(PM RFW) Number of stakeholder actions taken to increase recycling and reduce food loss and waste.
FY 2014
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017
FY 2018
FY 2019
FY 2020
FY 2021
Units
Preferred
Direction
No Trend
Data
Target
9,750
Actions
Above
Target
Actual
Metric Details: This measure tracks the number of stakeholder actions influenced by EPA to increase recycling and reduce food loss and waste. EPA facilitates and incentivizes
stakeholder action through grants, voluntary partnership programs, and public commitment/pledge initiatives. This measure aggregates the number of stakeholders that: (1) receive
EPA recycling and food waste grants; (2) join and participate in EPA voluntary partnership programs including WasteWise, State Measurement Program, Electronics Challenge,
Federal Green Challenge, and Food Recovery Challenge; or (3) sign EPA public commitment/pledge initiatives including America Recycles Pledge, 2030 Food Loss and Waste
Champions, and Winning on Reducing Food Waste. Stakeholder data are collected via EPA's programmatic webpages and the Sustainable Materials Management data
management system. A weighting factor is applied to the different stakeholder actions to account for more significant contributions and influence on the rate of domestic recycling
and reductions of food loss and waste. The weighting factor for new participants in the challenges and WasteWise is 3:1; for active participants in those programs is 7:1; and for
state participants in the State Measurement Program and grant recipients are each 10:1. There is no FY 2020 target because this is a new measure in FY 2021.
713
-------
GOAL 1: A Cleaner, Healthier Environment
Long-Term Performance Goal - By September 30, 2022, complete 56,000 additional leaking underground storage tank (LUST) cleanups that
meet risk-based standards for human exposure and groundwater migration12.
Annual performance goal that supports this long-term performance goal:
(PM 112) Number of LUST cleanups completed that meet risk-based standards for human exposure and groundwater migration.
Preferred
Direction
FY 2014
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017
FY 2018
FY 2019
FY 2020
FY 2021
Units
¦ III ¦ |
Target
9,000
8,600
8,600
8,600
11,200
11,200
11,200
11,200
Cleanups
Above
Actual
10,393
9,869
8,977
8,775
8,128
8,358
Target
1 1 1 1 1 1
Key Takeaways:
In FY 2018-2019, the cumulative total for LUST RAU was 16,486 sites, which is 74% of the two-year APG of 22,400 sites.
The annual trend is increasing for the first time in six years; the last time the Agency saw an increase in cleanups from one year to the next was FY 2013.
By the end of FY 2019, a total of 493,589 LUST cleanups had been completed, out of a cumulative universe of 550,897 confirmed releases. The national number of cleanups
completed is at 90% of total identified releases since the beginning of the Program in 1988. In FY 2019, the cleanup backlog dropped from 64,093 to 57,308.
As part of ELMS, EPA is working with the states to develop strategies to address issues regarding cleanup progress. The significant increase in backlog reduction is due to
state data cleanup efforts in addition to strategies to increase cleanups.
As the universe of available cleanups decreases, many of the remaining releases are ones with greater challenges such as a lack of responsible party, technically difficult
cleanups, or lack of available funds.
Metric Details: This measure tracks the number of petroleum-contaminated sites where the states, tribes and EPA have completed cleanup activities. The totals include cleanups
reported by states as well as EPA cleanups in Indian Country. EPA uses the LUST4 database to track progress. The universe of confirmed releases pending cleanup changes over
time as releases are identified and cleanups are completed. Targets represent annual increments needed to reach the long-term performance goal by FY 2022.
12 By the end of FY 2017, 469,898 LUST cleanups had been completed.
714
-------
GOAL 1: A Cleaner, Healthier Environment
Objective 1.4 - Ensure Safety of Chemicals in the Marketplace: Effectively implement the Toxic Substances Control Act, and the Federal
Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act, to ensure new and existing chemicals and pesticides are reviewed for their potential risks to
human health and the environment and actions are taken when necessary.
Performance toward target over time
Number of measures by percent of target achieved
~ 100% of target met (G)
~ 75-99% of target met (Y)
~ No target (NT)
2 (NT)
1 (Y)
4(G)
2 (NT)
3(Y)
3(G)
| 1(Y) | | 1(G) | | 1(G) | | 1(G) |
FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017 FY 2018 FY 2019
Summary of progress toward strategic objective:
EPA continues to make progress toward all long-term performance goals, with key
milestones achieved or in progress for TSCA chemical risk evaluations and risk
management actions, and continued improvement on timely completion of pre-
manufacture notice final determinations.
Released the first major update to the TSCA Inventory in 40 years.
Released draft risk evaluations for four of the 10 chemicals on the initial priority list; all
10 evaluations are expected to be finalized in FY 2020.
Released for public comment the proposed designations of 20 high-priority chemicals for
risk evaluation (along with 20 low-priority chemicals that will not be evaluated at this
time); final designations are expected in FY 2020.
Issued a proposed rule covering five Persistent, Bioaccumulative and Toxic (PBT)
chemicals and is on track to issue the final rule by the statutory deadline of December
2020.
Improved timeliness of pre-manufacture notice final determinations (78% completed
within 90 days), while continuing to complete all final determinations within timeframes
allowable by statute.
Exceeded the annual target for both the number of Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and
Rodenticide Act (FIFRA)-mandated decisions completed and the number of draft risk
assessments completed (completed 80 decisions, target is 75; completed 85 registration
review draft risk assessments, target is 72).
Challenges:
The new chemical review process under amended TSCA is complex, and the chemical
risk evaluation process requirements are rigorous and data-intensive. EPA continues to
apply findings from its FY 2018 and FY 2019 Lean activitiese.g., introducing further IT
enhancements, recruiting and training additional staff. Given the positive year-over-year
trend, EPA expects to meet its long-term performance goal by FY 2022.
EPA fell short of the annual targets for reducing the Pesticide Registration Improvement
Act (PRIA) registration decision timeframe (result of 686 days, target is 631) and
percentage of PRIA decisions (registration actions) completed on time (result of 97.6%,
target is 99%). EPA will focus on front-end processing of PRIA applications and the
conventional new active ingredient process to reduce decision timeframes for new active
ingredients.
715
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GOAL 1: A Cleaner, Healthier Environment
Long-Term Performance Goal - By September 30, 2022, complete all EPA-initiated TSCA risk evaluations for existing chemicals in
accordance with statutory timelines13.
Annual performance goal that supports this long-term performance goal:
(PM TSCA1) Number of final EPA-initiated TSCA risk evaluations completed within statutory timelines.
FY 2014
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017
FY 2018
FY 2019
FY 2020
FY 2021
Units
Preferred
Direction
No Trend
Data
Target
No Target
Established
N/A
10
N/A
Evaluations
Above
Target
Actual
0
N/A
N/A
Key Takeaways:
EPA continues to make progress toward the long-term performance goal, with key milestones achieved or in progress. EPA released draft risk evaluations for four of the 10
chemicals on the initial priority list (Pigment Violet-29, 1,4-Dioxane, Cyclic Aliphatic Bromide Cluster [HBCD], 1-Bromopropane), with all 10 evaluations expected to be
finalized in FY 2020.
EPA also released for public comment proposed designations of 20 additional high-priority chemicals for risk evaluation (along with 20 low-priority chemicals that will not be
evaluated at this time); the final designations are expected in FY 2020.
Metric Details: This measure tracks new risk evaluation activity under TSCA, as amended in 2016 by the Frank R. Lautenberg Chemical Safety for the 21st Century Act. A risk
evaluation is considered complete when the final risk evaluation is published in the Federal Register. The risk evaluation process is the second step, following prioritization and
before risk management, in EPA's existing chemical process under TSCA. The purpose of risk evaluation is to determine whether a chemical substance presents an unreasonable
risk to health or the enviromnent, under the conditions of use. As part of this process, EPA must evaluate both hazard and exposure, and ensure decisions are based on the weight-
of-scientific-evidence. The baseline is zero in FY 2017, as the Program is operating under new statutory authority. EPA will initiate the next set of 20 risk evaluations in FY 2020
to be completed within the timeframe of three and a half years as anticipated by statute. FY 2019 and FY 2021 have targets of Not Applicable because there are no statutory
deadlines in those years. This measure tracked progress toward a FY 2018-2019 Agency Priority Goal.
Long-Term Performance Goal - By September 30, 2022, complete all TSCA risk management actions for existing chemicals in accordance
with statutory timelines14.
Annual performance goal that supports this long-term performance goal:
(PM TSCA2) Number of final existing chemical TSCA risk management actions completed within statutory timelines.
FY 2014
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017
FY 2018
FY 2019
FY 2020
FY 2021
Units
Preferred
Direction
No Trend
Data
Target
No Target
Established
N/A
N/A
1
Actions
Above
Target
Actual
0
N/A
N/A
13 There is no baseline for this measure, as the program is operating under new statutory authority.
14 There is no baseline for this measure, as the program is operating under new statutory authority.
716
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GOAL 1: A Cleaner, Healthier Environment
Key Takeaways:
EPA is on track to meet the long-term performance goal by FY 2022, with key milestones achieved or in progress. EPA issued a proposed rule covering five Persistent,
Bioaccumulative and Toxic (PBT) chemicals, with the final rule expected by the statutory deadline of December 2020.
Metric Details: This measure tracks the number of risk management actions completed within statutory limits under TSCA, as amended by the Lautenberg Act. Risk management
actions are defined under TSCA as amended as actions to address certain PBT chemicals and to address risks from existing chemicals following risk evaluation. Statute requires
EPA to propose a rule under TSCA Section 6 for certain PBT chemicals by June 21, 2019 (in FY 2019), with a final rule to be issued by December 21, 2020 (in FY 2021). For risk
management actions following identification of unreasonable risk to human health or the enviromnent in a risk evaluation, final risk management actions must be completed within
two years after publication of the final risk evaluation. While the statute allows for a two-year extension this measure tracks performance against the initial deadline only. This
measure also encompasses TSCA risk management actions completed for other reasons, such as to address risks from exposure to chemicals for which risk assessments were
completed prior to enactment of the Lautenberg Act. The baseline is zero in FY 2017, as the Program is operating under new statutory authority. FY 2019 and FY 2020 have
targets of Not Applicable because there are no statutory deadlines in those years. This measure tracked progress toward a FY 2018-2019 APG.
Long-Term Performance Goal - By September 30, 2022, complete all TSCA pre-manufacture notice final determinations in accordance with
statutory timelines15.
Annual performance goals that support this long-term performance goal:
(PM TSCA3) Percentage of final TSCA new chemical determinations for Pre-Manufacture Notices, Significant New Use Notices and Microbial Commercial Activity
Notices completed within the initial 90-day statutory timeframe.
FY 2014
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017
FY 2018
FY 2019
FY 2020
FY 2021
Units
Preferred
Direction
r
Target
65
80
80
80
Percent
Above
Target
Actual
58.4
78
Numerator
45
103
Final Deter-
minations
Denominator
77
132
Key Takeaways:
Although substantially improved from FY 2018, performance in FY 2019 was two percent below EPA's annual target of 80 percent. Contributing factors included frequent
submitter requests for suspensions of review to provide additional information or amendments, increased complexity of review process under amended TSCA, and continuing
need for recruitment and training of new staff. EPA expects improvement by applying findings from the Lean activities completed in FY 2018 and FY 2019, introducing
further IT enhancements, and bringing additional staff on board. Given the positive year-over-year trend, EPA expects to meet long-term performance goal.
Metric Details: This measure tracks a subset of EPA's new chemicals review activity under TSCA, as amended by the Frank R. Lautenberg Chemical Safety for the 21 st Century
Act - the review of Pre-Manufacture Notices, Significant New Use Notices and Microbial Commercial Activity Notices (but not new chemicals reviews covered by exemptions).
EPA conducts these reviews prior to approving new chemicals or microbial substances in commerce, or new uses for existing chemicals that are subject to a Significant New Use
Rule, to determine whether the chemical substance or significant new use presents an unreasonable risk to human health or the enviromnent. The statute requires a base review
period of 90 days and allows EPA to extend this period another 90 days or for a different period at the request of a submitter. This measure tracks performance against the initial
90-day deadline only. This measure tracks final determinations for submissions received by EPA in that fiscal year. Additional information and statistics about the New Chemicals
15 Baseline is 58.4% of determinations made within 90 days in FY 2018. (Footnote updated from /') 20IH-2022 EPA Strategic Plan published February 12, 2018.)
717
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GOAL 1: A Cleaner, Healthier Environment
Program are available at: https://www.epa.gov/reviewing-new-chemicals-under-toxic-substances-control-act-tsca/statistics-new-chemicals-review. This measure tracked progress
toward a FY 2018-2019 APG.
(PM TSCA3b) Percentage of final TSCA new chemical determinations for Pre-Manufacture Notices, Significant New Use Notices and Microbial Commercial Activity
Notices completed within the full timeframes allowable by statute.
FY 2014
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017
FY 2018
FY 2019
FY 2020
FY 2021
Units
Preferred
Direction
Target
100
100
100
Percent
II"
Actual
100
100
100
Above
Numerator
567
292
429
Final Deter-
Target
III
Denominator
567
292
429
minations
Key Takeaways:
* EPA continues to maintain its perfect record of completing all final determinations within the timeframes allowable by statute, including instances when EPA agreed to grant
voluntary suspensions at the request of a submitter.
Metric Details: This measure tracks a subset of EPA's new chemicals review activity under TSCA, as amended by the Frank R. Lautenberg Chemical Safety for the 21 st Century
Act - the review of Pre-Manufacture Notices, Significant New Use Notices and Microbial Commercial Activity Notices (but not new chemicals reviews covered by exemptions).
EPA conducts these reviews prior to approving new chemicals or microbial substances in commerce, or new uses for existing chemicals that are subject to a Significant New Use
Rule, to determine whether the chemical substance or significant new use presents an unreasonable risk to human health or the enviromnent. EPA lias the authority to agree to
voluntary suspensions at the request of a submitter; these provide additional time to complete the required review pending receipt of additional information that is needed. This
measure tracks performance against the full timeframes authorized under the statute. A performance result of 100% indicates that there were no instances in which EPA failed to
complete a final determination within the period of review agreed to. The baseline is 100% of determinations made within full timeframes allowable by statute in FY 2017.
Long-Term Performance Goal - By September 30, 2022, complete all cases of Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA)-
mandated decisions for the pesticides registration review program16.
Annual performance goals that support this long-term performance goal:
(PM FIFRA1) Number of FIFRA decisions completed through pesticides registration review.
FY 2014
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017
FY 2018
FY 2019
FY 2020
FY 2021
Units
Preferred
Direction
¦nlfl
Target
58
75
110
110
Decisions
Above
Target
Actual
22
33
41
56
64
80
Key Takeaways:
EPA efficiently and effectively managed resources and transparently employed rigorous scientific and policy approaches, as well as grouping the nine acetolactate synthase
(ALS)-inhibiting herbicides into one single decision while remaining consistent with statutory mandates.
16 Baseline is a total of 239 decisions completed through FY 2017 of the known universe of 725. (Footnote updated from FY 2018-2022 EPA Strategic Plan published February 12,
2018.)
718
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GOAL 1: A Cleaner, Healthier Environment
EPA updated the FY 2018 actual from 65 to 64, due to a data correction.
Metric Details: Through the Pesticide Registration Review Program, EPA is reviewing each registered pesticide every 15 years to determine whether it still meets the FIFRA
standard for registration. FIFRA requires that all pesticides intended for use in the U.S. be registered (licensed) by EPA to ensure that they do not cause "unreasonable adverse
effects on man or the environment." FIFRA defines unreasonable adverse effects as "any unreasonable risk to man or the enviromnent, taking into account the economic, social,
and enviromnental costs and benefits of the use of any pesticide." By law, EPA must complete the first 15-year cycle of registration review by October 1, 2022. The baseline is a
total of 239 decisions completed through FY 2017 of a known universe of 725 cases (33%). Targets represent annual increments needed to reach the long-term performance goal
by FY 2022.
(PM FIFRA2) Number of FIFRA registration review draft risk assessments completed.
FY 2014
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017
FY 2018
FY 2019
FY 2020
FY 2021
Units
Preferred
Direction
.Lf
Target
70
72
80
85
Risk
Above
ill
Actual
37
59
59
76
112
85
Assessments
Target
¦ 11111
Key Takeaways:
EPA streamlined a significant number of low resource risk assessments by producing qualitative assessments or focusing only on the expected areas of risk, as well as
grouping the soil fumigants into one single assessment, while remaining consistent with statutory mandates.
EPA updated the FY 2018 actual from 113 to 112, due to a data correction.
Metric Details: Through the Pesticide Registration Review Program, EPA is reviewing each registered pesticide every 15 years to determine whether it still meets the FIFRA
standard for registration. FIFRA requires that all pesticides intended for use in the U.S. be registered (licensed) by EPA to ensure that they do not cause "unreasonable adverse
effects on man or the enviromnent." FIFRA defines unreasonable adverse effects as "any unreasonable risk to man or the enviromnent, taking into account the economic, social,
and enviromnental costs and benefits of the use of any pesticide." By law, EPA must complete the first 15-year cycle of registration review by October 1, 2022. The baseline is a
total of 349 draft risk assessments completed through FY 2017 of a known universe of 725 cases (48%).
Long-Term Performance Goal - By September 30, 2022, reduce the Pesticide Registration Improvement Act (PRIA) registration decision
timeframe by an average of 60 days17.
Annual performance goals that support this long-term performance goal:
(PM PRIA1) Average number of days to complete PRIA decisions for new active ingredients.
FY 2014
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017
FY 2018
FY 2019
FY 2020
FY 2021
Units
Preferred
Direction
nirr
Target
643
631
619
607
Days
Below
Actual
627
687
638
603
686
Target
11111
Key Takeaways:
FY 2019 performance fell short of the annual target for reducing the PRIA registration decision timeframe.
17 Baseline is an average timeframe of 655 days (range: 93-2,086 days) for PRIA decisions for 68 new active ingredients completed in FY 2015-2017.
719
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GOAL 1: A Cleaner, Healthier Environment
The standard deviation of decision timeframes for the fourteen completions is 128 days, with some of the variability due to varying statutory timeframes for different new
active ingredient PRIA categories.
Contributing factors included: (1) three of the 14 completions had longer statutory timeframes; (2) the total number of new active ingredient completions in FY 2019 was
somewhat lower than normal; and (3) 12 of the 14 completions required renegotiation of the PRIA due date, which adds time to the overall process. Reasons for the
renegotiation of the PRIA due date in FY 2019 included: deficient applications; additional studies required; risk mitigation issues; public participation process; and the Federal
Register Notice publication process.
The Agency is using the EPA Lean Management System (ELMS) to focus on front end processing of PRIA applications and the conventional new active ingredient process.
These activities should lead to process changes that reduce decision timeframes for new active ingredient decisions going forward.
Metric Details: To expedite the review and licensing of pesticides' new active ingredients, EPA will reduce the incidence of PRIA negotiations, improve meeting the timeframes
specified in PRIA, and expedite the overall processing of reduced risk pesticides. The baseline is an average timeframe of 655 days (range: 93-2,086 days, standard deviation of
395 days) for PRIA decisions for 68 new active ingredients completed in FY 2015-2017. There are 36 different PRIA categories that relate to new active ingredients, with statutory
time frames ranging from 7-24 months.
(PM 091) Percentage of decisions (registration actions) completed on time (on or before PRIA or negotiated due dates).
FY 2014
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017
FY 2018
FY 2019
FY 2020
FY 2021
Units
Preferred
Direction
Target
97.0
96
96
97
99
99
99
99
Percent
illlll
Actual
85
98.4
99
99
99.7
98
Above
Numerator
1,627
2,078
2,157
2,008
2,193
2,034
Decisions
Target
Denominator
1,919
2,111
2,174
2,026
2,199
2,085
Key Takeaways:
EPA was one percent short of the annual target for percentage of PRIA decisions (registration actions) completed on time.
EPA was not able to work on or close out actions during the lapse in government funding, nor was EPA able to initiate work on any new applications submitted during that
period. EPA had to review both pending and newly-received applications when the govermnent reopened.
EPA will continue to monitor on-time performance on a monthly basis in FY 2020.
Based on prior years and performance following the lapse in government funding in FY 2019, EPA expects to be able to meet the 99% on-time completion target for FY 2020.
Metric Details: Whereas PM PRIA1 tracks performance for new active ingredient decisions only, this measure relates to all PRIA categories described in the fee tables in FIFRA
section 33(b)(3). Additionally, FIFRA section 33(f)(5) allows that EPA and the applicant may mutually agree to extend a decision time review period. Decisions completed on or
before the negotiated due date but after the original PRIA due date are still considered "on-time" under this measure. More information on PRIA can be found on
https://www.epa.gov/pria-fees/pria-overview-and-Mstorv. The baseline is 94% average of decisions completed on-time from FY 2014-2016.
720
-------
GOAL 2: More Effective Partnerships
Goal 2 at a Glance
More Effective Partnerships: Provide certainty to states, localities, tribal nations, and the regulated community in carrying out shared
responsibilities and communicating results to all Americans.
FY 2019 Enacted Budget (in thousands) by goal and objective
Goal 2 Cooperative Federalism
$318,162
(of $8,849,488
EPA total)
Obj 2.1 Enhance Shared Accountability
$302,103
Obj 2.2 Increase Transparency and
Public Participation
$16,059
Performance toward target by objective
Number of measures by percent of target achieved
~ 100% of target met (G)
~ <75% of target met (R)
~ No target (NT)
Obj 2.1
Obj 2.2
721
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GOAL 2: More Effective Partnerships
Objective 2.1 - Enhance Shared Accountability: Improve environmental protection through shared governance and enhanced collaboration
with state, tribal, local, and federal partners using the full range of compliance assurance tools.
Performance toward target overtime
Number of measures by percent of target achieved
~ 100% of target met (G)
~ 75-99% of target met (Y)
~ No target (NT)
1 (Y)
1 (Y)
1 (Y)
1 (Y)
2 (NT)
1 (NT)
2(G)
1(G)
FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017 FY 2018 FY 2019
EPA, in consultation with the Office of Management and Budget, highlighted this objective as
a focus area for improvement because of the need to clarify the Agency's statutory roles and
responsibilities and to tailor state and tribal oversight to maximize EPA's return on investment
and reduce burden on states and tribes, while ensuring continued progress in meeting
enviromnental laws.
Summary of progress toward strategic objective:
EPA is collaborating with state enviromnental agencies on shared governance approaches,
including a national policy on the oversight of state permitting programs.
EPA is assessing its direct implementation work in Indian Country.
EPA is analyzing a snapshot of grant commitment data and exploring options for
centralized tracking and reporting.
As of September 30, 2019, EPA lias completed 470 EPA-Tribal Enviromnental Plans
(ETEPs). The purpose of these, and additional ETEPs under development, is to increase
shared governance through joint planning that informs decisions on financial and technical
assistance for enviromnental programs. EPA will monitor regional actions to implement
ETEPs as part of its business review process.
Completed 64 tribal consultations in FY 2019. Since 2011, EPA lias completed over 500
Tribal Consultations, an important Agency milestone under the EPA Tribal Consultation
Policy.
Issued a final policy on Enhancing Effective Partnerships Between EPA and the states in
Civil Enforcement and Compliance Assurance Work, committing to more effectively
carrying out shared responsibilities with our co-regulators by improving communication,
engaging in joint work planning, and recognizing the primary role of states in
implementing authorized programs while also identifying circumstances where direct EPA
action may be appropriate.
Challenges:
Multiple tools are used by EPA regions to track state enviromnental outcomes through
federal financial assistance agreements. EPA is developing a comprehensive system to
track, at a national level, the activities states commit to, in their annual grants, beginning
with piloting grant commitment tracking in select programs in FY 2020.
EPA is conducting a centralized effort across program offices to establish metrics for
assessing EPA direct implementation activities. EPA anticipates beginning a pilot program
review of regional implementation in Indian Country in FY 2020.
722
-------
GOAL 2: More Effective Partnerships
Long-Term Performance Goal - By September 30, 2022, increase the number of grant commitments achieved by states, tribes, and local
communities18.
Annual performance goal that supports this long-term performance goal:
(PM ST1) Percentage of grant commitments achieved by states, tribes, and local communities.
FY 2014
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017
FY 2018
FY 2019
FY 2020
FY 2021
Units
Preferred
Direction
No Trend
Data
Target
No Target
Established
No Target
Established
No Target
Established
TBD
Percent
Above
Target
Actual
N/A
N/A
Numerator
Commit-
ments
Denominator
Key Takeaways:
In FY 2019, EPA analyzed grant commitment data for a subset of the Agency's grant programs and found commitments varied, based on the diverse nature of its programs.
In FY 2020, EPA is working with program offices to pilot a method to capture grantees' progress toward meeting the commitments established in grant agreements.
Metric Details: Grant commitments are negotiated by EPA and the state, tribal, or local grant recipient. The metric will be calculated as: number of grant commitments achieved
over the total number of grant commitments for select grant programs.
Long-Term Performance Goal - By September 30, 2022, increase the use of alternative shared governance approaches to address state,
tribal, and local community reviews19.
Annual performance goal that supports this long-term performance goal:
(PM ST2) Number of alternative shared governance approaches used to address state, tribal, and local community reviews.
FY 2014
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017
FY 2018
FY 2019
FY 2020
FY 2021
Units
Preferred
Direction
/
Target
No Target
Established
3
20
20
Alternative
Approaches
Above
Target
Actual
0
14
Key Takeaways:
EPA coordinated with states and tribes to develop a principles memo, outlining key tenets of shared governance. The memo aligns with the Enviromnental Council of the
States' Cooperative Federalism principles.
18 Universe (number of grant commitments) and FY 2021 target will be determined in FY 2020. (Footnote updated from FY 2018-2022 EPA Strategic Plan published February 12,
2018.)
19 There is no baseline for this measure. (Footnote updated from FY 2018-2022 EPA Strategic Plan published February 12, 2018.)
723
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GOAL 2: More Effective Partnerships
The Clean Water Act National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) and the Clean Air Act Title V operating permit programs piloted the application of this
memo using program-specific templates; after seeking feedback from state partners, EPA implemented the process in all 10 of its regional offices.
EPA continues to work with states to identify additional areas of focus and will deploy a similar process for each of these areas.
Metric Details: This measure tracks the number of program areas where EPA lias launched the new oversight framework. EPA will define, develop, pilot, evaluate, and launch a
comprehensive system to evaluate state and local implementation of federal enviromnental programs in FY 2020. Tribes are not included in the pilot at this time. The "oversight
framework" is defined as the overarching principles as laid out in the principles memo (available at: https://www.epa.gov/aboutepa/andrew-wheeler-messages-epa-emplovees).
coupled with a template populated with state-and regional specific details on the review activity in question. The purpose of this effort is twofold: to begin to standardize EPA's
oversight work across EPA regions, and to maximize state and federal resources by focusing on the most important work.
Other Core Work supporting Objective 2.1
Annual performance goals:
(PM PAM1) Number of EPA actions to address international marine litter priorities.
FY 2014
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017
FY 2018
FY 2019
FY 2020
FY 2021
Units
Preferred
Direction
No Trend
Data
Target
6
Actions
Above
Target
Actual
Metric Details: This measure covers EPA's efforts to assist international enviromnent ministries to implement tools and approaches to improve water quality, improve solid waste
management and prevent marine litter in our shared oceans. Specifically, the measure will track EPA international actions that could include: facilitating local/regional projects
that focus on improving waste collection practices in significant source countries, recycling, clean-up and capture; participating in/leading international multilateral fora to increase
advancement of EPA policies and positions; assisting in development of marine litter action plan(s) in source countries to reduce leakage of trash to the enviromnent; identification
of steps to implement relevant and applicable waste collection and management systems; and assessment of waste flows and sharing of holistic solid waste management
approaches. There is no FY 2020 target because this is a new measure in FY 2021.
(PM 409) Number of federal on-site compliance monitoring inspections and evaluations and off-site compliance monitoring activities.
FY 2014
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017
FY 2018
FY 2019
FY 2020
FY 2021
Units
Preferred
Direction
n ia_
Target
17,000
15,500
15,500
14,000
10,000
10,000
10,000
10,000
Inspections &
Above
m-
Actual
16,000
15,400
13,500
11,800
10,600
10,300
Evaluations
Target
111111
Key Takeaways:
EPA is using data to target its efforts so that fewer inspections are needed to find noncompliance. EPA also is continuing to expand incentives for self-audit/disclosure.
EPA formalized its commitment to more effective partnerships and issued a final policy on Enhancing Effective Partnerships Between the EPA and the States in Civil
Enforcement and Compliance Assurance Work, committing to more effectively carry out shared responsibilities with our co-regulators.
Metric Details: This measure description was modified in FY 2018 to clarify the types of activities included. The targets reflect a recognition that states conduct the vast majority
of inspections and an EPA focus on direct implementation programs.
724
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GOAL 2: More Effective Partnerships
Objective 2.2 - Increase Transparency and Public Participation: Listen to and collaborate with impacted stakeholders and provide effective
platforms for public participation and meaningful engagement.
Performance toward target overtime
Number of measures by percent of target achieved
~ <75% of target met (R)
~ No target (NT)
1 (NT)
FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017 FY 2018 FY 2019
EPA, in consultation with the Office of Management and Budget, highlighted this objective as
a focus area for improvement due to significant challenges in responding to Freedom of
Information Act (FOIA) requests.
Summary of progress toward strategic objective:
Led the efforts of the White House Opportunity and Revitalization Council by delivering
community-driven assistance in 33 communities through unique programs such as Local
Foods, Local Places and Building Blocks for Community Revitalization.
Trained more than 4,000 state level colleagues on best practices for integrating
enviromnental justice considerations at the state level, including representatives from all
50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico.
Collaborated with other federal agencies to provide direct technical assistance workshops
to economically distressed communities. These workshops support coimnunity-driven
solutions to enviromnental challenges and economic decline in more than 60 communities.
Formed a workgroup to develop effective risk communication strategies and enhance the
Agency's engagement with stakeholders such as parents, other caregivers and healthcare
providers regarding children's enviromnental health.
Reduced the Agency's FOIA backlog by 16% from the April 2018 baseline, missing the
target of 25%. EPA updated its FOIA regulations for the first time since 2002 to bring its
regulations into compliance with the 2007, 2009, and 2016 statutory amendments and
centralize FOIA submission to EPA's National FOIA Office. EPA enhanced its FOIA
intake, review, and assignment standard operating procedures, checklists, and templates,
and retrained all FOIA intake review staff, to improve consistency and accuracy in the
FOIA intake and assignment process.
Challenges:
Available staff and funding limit the number of communities EPA can serve from its
assistance programs.
EPA continued to face significant challenges in responding to FOIA requests including a
significant FOIA backlog from prior years in certain offices, a substantial increase in the
backlog during the lapse in government appropriations, data quality management
challenges, and challenges maintaining sufficiently trained staff to process FOIA requests.
725
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GOAL 3: Greater Certainty, Compliance, and Effectiveness
Long-Term Performance Goal - By September 30, 2022, eliminate the backlog and meet statutory deadlines for responding to Freedom of
Information Act (FOIA) requests20.
Annual performance goal that supports this long-term performance goal:
(PM FOl) Percentage reduction in overdue FOIA requests from the April 2018 baseline.
FY 2014
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017
FY 2018
FY 2019
FY 2020
FY 2021
Units
Preferred
Direction
/
Target
No Target
Established
25
50
75
Percent
Above
Target
Actual
-9
16
Numerator
-224
409
Requests
Denominator
2,537
2,537
Key Takeaways:
In FY 2019, EPA made up the ground it lost in FY 2018 and reduced its FOIA backlog to 2,128 at the end of the fiscal year, 409 below the baseline that was set at 2,537 in
April 2018. Even with this substantial 16% FOIA backlog reduction EPA did not achieve its goal of reducing the backlog to 25% below the baseline. Nevertheless, the
Agency made enough progress that it believes it will meet the long-term performance goal by FY 2022.
To reduce its FOIA backlog and enhance FOIA processing, EPA completed the realignment of regional FOIA programs into the Regional Counsel Offices to create direct
reporting lines to the General Counsel, who is the Agency's Chief FOIA Officer.
EPA continued to face significant challenges in responding to FOIA requests including a significant FOIA backlog from prior years in certain offices, a substantial increase in
the backlog during the lapse in government appropriations, data quality management challenges, and challenges maintaining sufficiently trained staff to process FOIA
requests.
EPA started issuing monthly backlog reports to Agency leaders displaying each program and regional office's FOIA backlog to increase transparency and accountability.
EPA updated its FOIA regulations for the first time since 2002 to bring its regulations into compliance with the 2007, 2009, and 2016 statutory amendments and to centralize
FOIA submission to EPA's National FOIA Office to streamline the initial intake review and assigmnent to EPA regions and program offices.
EPA enhanced its FOIA intake, review, and assigmnent standard operating procedures, checklists, and templates, and retrained all FOIA intake review staff, to improve
consistency and accuracy in the FOIA intake process.
EPA completed development of and began delivering training to supervisors on their FOIA responsibilities, thereby strengthening the implementation of the FY 2019
performance appraisal requirements for all managers with FOIA responsibilities.
Metric Details: For purposes of this measure, overdue requests are defined as those EPA deadlines that are not indicated as closed on FOIAonline.gov after 20 working days for
simple requests, 30 days for unusual circumstances, or other requestor agreed upon timeframes. EPA is focusing on reducing the FOIA backlog the Agency built up over the years
and on improving the FOIA process which gives the public the right to make requests for federal agency records. The complexity and volume of electronic documents that must be
searched, collected, and reviewed has increased over time. The Agency will ensure that it can support the timely searching and collection of electronically-stored information for
purposes of responding to FOIA requests and other information needs in a cost-effective and sustainable manner. This should not only help the Agency provide the public with the
information requested, but also reduce the fees and lawsuits the Agency incurs from missing FOIA response deadlines. As of April 2018, there were 2,537 overdue FOIA requests
in the backlog.
211 As of April 2018, there were 2,537 overdue FOIA requests in the backlog. (Footnote updated fmrnFY 2018-2022 EPA Strategic Plan published February 12,2018.)
726
-------
GOAL 3: Greater Certainty, Compliance, and Effectiveness
Goal 3 at a Glance
Greater Certainty, Compliance, and Effectiveness: Increase certainty, compliance, and effectiveness by applying the rule of law to achieve more
efficient and effective agency operations, service delivery, and regulatory relief.
FY 2019 Enacted Budget (in thousands) by goal and objective
Goal 3 Greater Certainty, Compliance, and
Effectiveness
Obj 3.1 Compliance with the Law
$405,392
$1,905,579
(of $8,849,488 EPA
total)
Obj 3.2 Create Consistency and Certainty $64,798
Obj 3.3 Prioritize Robust Science
$485,424
Obj 3.4 Streamline and Modernize $42,466
Obj 3.5 Improve Efficiency and Effectiveness
$907,499
Performance toward target by objective
Number of measures by percent of target achieved
Obj 3.1 Obj 3.2
727
1(G)
Obj 3.3
~ 100% of target met (G)
~ 75-99% of target met (Y)
~ <75% of target met (R)
~ No target (NT)
1 (NT)
Obj 3.4
Obj 3.5
-------
GOAL 3: Greater Certainty, Compliance, and Effectiveness
Objective 3.1 - Compliance with the Law: Timely enforce environmental laws to increase compliance rates and promote cleanup of
contaminated sites through the use of all of EPA's compliance assurance tools, especially enforcement actions to address environmental
violations.
Performance toward target overtime
Number of measures by percent of target achieved
~ 100% of target met (G)
2(G)
FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017 FY 2018 FY 2019
4(G)
Summary of progress toward strategic objective:
Selected six National Compliance Initiatives (NCIs) for the FY 2020-2023 cycle that will
advance the strategic objectives in the FY 2018-2022 EPA Strategic Plan to improve air
quality, provide for clean and safe water, ensure chemical safety, and improve compliance
with our nation's enviromnental laws while enhancing shared accountability. The
enforcement and compliance assurance program also contributes to the Agency's goal of
reducing childhood lead exposures and associated health impacts as part of implementing
the Federal Lead Action Plan.
Increased the percentage of inspection reports that EPA provides to facilities within 70
days of inspection from 46% to 81%. This will speed the correction of violations.
Reduced the rate of significant noncompliance (SNC) with Clean Water Act National
Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits to 25.0% from a baseline of
29.4%.
Increased documentable EPA administrative enforcement actions/activities producing
correction of violations from 74 to 184.
The Superfund Enforcement Program secured private party commitments for cleanup and
cost recovery and billed for oversight amounts totaling more than $961 million. The use of
Superfund enforcement tools resulted in cleanup and redevelopment at 160 private party
sites.
EPA and California reached a settlement with Fiat Chrysler, which paid a $305M penalty
and implemented a recall/mitigation program at an estimated cost of $185M for violating
the Clean Air Act by installing defeat devices in more than 100,000 vehicles to lessen the
effectiveness of the vehicles' emission control systems.
Reached a settlement with New York City's Hillview Reservoir to address drinking water
violations involving potential adverse human health risks posed by Cryptosporidium with
injunctive relief estimated at $2.95B.
Challenges:
EPA and states continue to find (and resolve) NPDES permit data quality issues (e.g.,
definition, entry, and completeness).
728
-------
GOAL 3: Greater Certainty, Compliance, and Effectiveness
Long-Term Performance Goal - By September 30, 2022, reduce the average time from violation identification to correction21.
Annual performance goal that supports this long-term performance goal:
(PM 436) Number of all referred no complaint filed (RNCF) civil judicial cases that are more than 2.5 years old.
FY 2014
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017
FY 2018
FY 2019
FY 2020
FY 2021
Units
Preferred
Direction
No Trend
Data
Target
129
120
120
Cases
Below
Target
Actual
94
Key Takeaways:
Close cooperation between EPA headquarters and regions and with the Department of Justice ensures that cases move toward resolution at an appropriate speed. EPA is
making progress to more quickly return violators to compliance.
Metric Details: This measure represents the number of all open civil judicial cases (excluding Superfund, bankruptcy, collection action, and access order cases) that are more than
2.5 years old without a complaint filed. The average time from referral to complaint for a complaint filed between FY 2013 and FY 2017 was 2.5 years. The baseline for this
measure is 129 cases that were more than 2.5 years old without a complaint filed in June 2018.
Long-Term Performance Goal - By September 30, 2022, increase the environmental law compliance rate22.
Annual performance goal that supports this long-term performance goal:
(PM 432) Percentage of Clean Water Act National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permittees in significant noncompliance with their permit limits.
FY 2014
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017
FY 2018
FY 2019
FY 2020
FY 2021
Units
Preferred
Direction
r
Target
24
25.7
22.1
18.4
Percent
Below
Target
Actual
22
25.0
Numerator
12,017
10,141
Permittees
Denominator
53,545
40,606
Key Takeaways:
EPA reduced the rate of SNC of NPDES permits to 25.0% from a revised FY 2018 baseline of 29.4%.
EPA convened a national EPA-state conference focused on reducing the rate of SNC in the NPDES Program by examining best practices being implemented in EPA regions
and in states.
21 As a proxy, EPA is measuring the number of all referred no complaint filed (RNCF) civil judicial cases that are more than 2.5 years old. EPA is working in close cooperation
with the U.S. Department of Justice to ensure that cases move toward resolution at an appropriate speed in order to more quickly return violators to compliance. (Footnote updated
from FY 2018-2022 EPA Strategic Plan published February 12, 2018.)
22 This concept will be piloted by focusing initially on decreasing the percentage of Clean Water Act (CWA) National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES)
permittees in significant noncompliance with their permit limits. Other program areas may be included in this long-term performance goal during the FY 2018-2022 timeframe.
(Footnote updated from FY 2018-2022 EPA Strategic Plan published February 12, 2018.)
729
-------
GOAL 3: Greater Certainty, Compliance, and Effectiveness
Metric Details: This purpose of this measure is to track the NPDES SNC/Category 1 noncompliance rate among individually permitted major and non-major (minor) NPDES
permittees. Major and minor permittees that were in SNC/Category 1 noncompliance at any time during the year are counted in the numerator. NPDES SNC/Category 1
noncompliance identifies a specific level of violation, based on duration severity, and type of violation. Baseline: For FY 2018, EPA estimated 24% of NPDES permittees to be in
SNC. For FY 2019, EPA recalculated the baseline to be 29.4% upon discovery of facilities erroneously included in the universe of regulated permittees counted in the
denominator. This measure tracked progress toward a FY 2018-2019 Agency Priority Goal.
Other Core Work supporting Objective 3.1
Annual performance goals:
(PM 434) Millions of pounds of pollutants and waste reduced, treated, or eliminated through concluded enforcement actions.
FY 2014
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017
FY 2018
FY 2019
FY 2020
FY 2021
Units
Preferred
Direction
. |
Target
325
325
325
325
Millions of
Above
.u-
Actual
1,221
1,030
62,223
461
810
347
Pounds
Target
1111
Key Takeaways:
Results exceeded target but were lower than previous years.
The target for this measure is an estimate based on cases in development and past results. Results in any given year are dependent on actual case outcomes, which are quite
variable and difficult to predict. Annual totals are often influenced by a few large cases.
Metric Details: This measure combines enviromnental benefits from pounds of air, water, hazardous and non-hazardous waste, and toxics/pesticides pollutants reduced, treated, or
eliminated through concluded enforcement actions. Prior to FY 2018, pounds of pollutants reduced, treated, or eliminated for different media were tracked using separate
measures.
(PM 441) Number of enforcement tools completed to address cleanup and/or long-term protection, including reuse, of contaminated sites.
FY 2014
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017
FY 2018
FY 2019
FY 2020
FY 2021
Units
Preferred
Direction
No Trend
Data
Target
170
Tools
Above
Target
Actual
210
Key Takeaways:
Superfund Task Force efforts contributed to achievement of the FY 2019 target for this measure.
Metric Details: For Superfund private sites, this measure includes: completed private party enforcement agreements for the performance of site study and cleanup; agreements that
make cash payments toward future site work; cost recovery settlements with funds dedicated for future work; completed agreements with third-party prospective purchasers to help
remove liability barriers to contaminated properties and facilitate redevelopment; and assurances to parties interested in cleaning up, purchasing and developing certain properties
(comfort/status letter). This measure also counts Superfund Federal Facility Agreements (FFAs) and FFA amendments; Records of Decision (RODs) and ROD amendments;
Explanation of Significant Differences (ESDs); and Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) Corrective Action cleanup orders. Potentially Responsible Parties and other
parties made an average of 170 commitments to perform or pay for cleanup and/or reuse of contaminated sites from FY 2014 to FY 2018. This measure is discontinued after FY
2019.
730
-------
GOAL 3: Greater Certainty, Compliance, and Effectiveness
Objective 3.2 - Create Consistency and Certainty: Outline exactly what is expected of the regulated community to ensure good stewardship
and positive environmental outcomes.
Performance toward target over time
Number of measures by percent of target achieved
~ 100% ot target met(G)
~ <75% of target met (R)
~ No target (NT)
2(G)
FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017 FY 2018 FY 2019
3 (NT)
3 (NT)
EPA, in consultation with the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), highlighted this
objective as a focus area for improvement given the increase in reporting burden hours to the
regulated community.
Summary of progress toward strategic objective:
EPA increased reporting burden to the regulated community by 5.9 million hours,
compared with a targeted reduction of 2.0 million hours.
To reduce burden hours, EPA developed a guidance document on valuing the cost of time
in Information Collection Request (ICR) burden estimates that will help with consistency
of estimates.
EPA also developed a list of the 33 ICRs that exceed 1 million hours of burden to help
offices with strategic planning on burden reduction efforts.
Challenges:
In order to significantly reduce burden hours, EPA would have to change individual
regulations to reduce the information required to be collected. Regulation changes require
FTE resources, extramural dollars, and years to complete and need a high degree of
focused attention at the agency. EPA lias more than 400 ICRs.
EPA faced challenges meeting legal deadlines based on limited staff resources and
focused on deadlines with greatest impact on state planning and enviromnental benefits.
731
-------
GOAL 3: Greater Certainty, Compliance, and Effectiveness
Long-Term Performance Goal - By September 30, 2022, meet 100% of legal deadlines imposed on EPA.
Annual performance goal that supports this long-term performance goal:
(PM RG1) Percentage of legal deadlines met by EPA.
FY 2014
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017
FY 2018
FY 2019
FY 2020
FY 2021
Units
Preferred
Direction
No Trend
Data
Target
No Target
Established
No Target
Established
Percent
Above
Target
Actual
N/A
N/A
Numerator
Legal
Deadlines
Denominator
Key Takeaways:
In FY 2019, EPA began to develop a revised methodology to consider the scope for tracking this measure.
Metric Details: The methodology for this measure is under development.
Long-Term Performance Goal - By September 30, 2022, eliminate unnecessary or duplicative reporting burdens to the regulated community
by 10,000,000 hours23.
Annual performance goal that supports this long-term performance goal:
(PM RG2) Hours of unnecessary or duplicative reporting burden to the regulated community eliminated.
Preferred
Direction
FY 2014
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017
FY 2018
FY 2019
FY 2020
FY 2021
Units
1|- -
Target
2,000,000
2,000,000
2,000,000
2,000,000
Hours
Above
Actual
2,026,627
-5,893,454
Target
1
Key Takeaways:
In FY 2019, OMB approved 204 EPA actions on ICRs. Of those, 36% of actions decreased burden, 39% increased burden and 25% represented no change.
EPA increased net reporting burden to the regulated community by 5.9 million hours, compared with a targeted reduction of 2.0 million hours. Most of the increase was due
to: (1) the microbial rules, which reflect full implementation of the Revised Total Colifonn Rule (3.44 million hours); (2) a rule requiring facilities that use extremely
hazardous substances to develop a Risk Management Plan (1.78 million hours); (3) a rule increasing the number of facilities subject to reporting under the Emergency
Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (1.05 million hours); and (4) revisions to the Renewable Fuels Standards (0.65 million hours).
EPA developed a guidance document on valuing the cost of time in ICR burden estimates that will help with consistency of estimates.
EPA also developed a list of the 33 ICRs that exceed 1,000,000 hours of burden to help offices with strategic planning on burden reduction efforts. These ICRs represent 85%
of the Agency's overall burden.
23 Baseline is estimated at 173,849,665 information collection and reporting hours as of October 2, 2017. (Footnote updated from FY 2018-2022 EPA Strategic Plan published
February 12, 2018.)
732
-------
GOAL 3: Greater Certainty, Compliance, and Effectiveness
As of the end of FY 2019, total information collection and reporting hours were 177,716,492.
Metric Details: EPA will engage in continuous improvement for managing the paperwork burden on regulated entities associated with EPA's ICRs and reduce the burden where
possible, with a goal of eliminating 2 million hours of unnecessary or duplicative reporting per year toward the goal of 10 million hours by the end of FY 2022. Annual increments
represent permanent changes in reporting burden. The data are tracked in OMB 's RegInfo.gov database. Targets represent annual increments needed to reach the long-term
performance goal by FY 2022.
Other Core Work supporting Objective 3.2
Annual performance goals:
(PM RG3) Number of EO 13771 regulatory actions issued.
FY 2014
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017
FY 2018
FY 2019
FY 2020
FY 2021
Units
Preferred
Direction
¦I
Target
No Target
Established
No Target
Established
No Target
Established
No Target
Established
Actions
Above
Target
Actual
3
6
Key Takeaways:
EPA issued six regulatory actions and 18 deregulatory actions (see PM RG4), exceeding the Executive Order (EO) 13771 two-for-one requirement.
Metric Details: This measure is an OMB requirement based on Presidential Memorandum M-17-23 which outlines the requirements of EO 13771, including a two-for-one
requirement that agencies must issue two deregulatory actions for every regulatory action issued. No targets are established per OMB guidance, but results are reported.
(PM RG4) Number of EO 13771 deregulatory actions issued.
FY 2014
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017
FY 2018
FY 2019
FY 2020
FY 2021
Units
Preferred
Direction
il
Target
No Target
Established
No Target
Established
No Target
Established
No Target
Established
Actions
Above
Target
Actual
10
18
Key Takeaways:
EPA issued 18 deregulatory actions and six regulatory actions (see PM RG3), exceeding the EO 13771 two-for-one requirement.
Metric Details: This measure is an OMB requirement based on Presidential Memorandum M-17-23 which outlines the requirements of EO 13771, including a two-for-one
requirement that agencies must issue two deregulatory actions for every regulatory action issued. No targets are established per OMB guidance, but results are reported.
733
-------
GOAL 3: Greater Certainty, Compliance, and Effectiveness
(PM RG5) Total incremental cost of all EO 13771 regulatory and deregulatory actions.
FY 2014
FY 2015
FY 2016
FY 2017
FY 2018
FY 2019
FY 2020
FY 2021
Units
Preferred
Direction
A
Target
-40
-50
-2,138
No Target
Established
Millions of
Dollars
Below
Target
Actual
-22
-75
449
Key Takeaways:
EPA missed the FY 2019 target because some regulatory actions were delayed and some did not have the anticipated costs and savings.
In FY 2019, EPA finalized deregulatory actions that will save the American people over $58.3 million per year in regulatory burden.
Metric Details: This measure is an OMB requirement based on Presidential Memorandum M-17-23. In FY 2017, the total incremental cost of all EO 13771 regulatory and
deregulatory actions was -$21.5 million. The incremental cost values are annualized values in 2016 dollars applying a 7% discount rate, discounted to the year 2016 and assuming
a perpetual time horizon. Incremental benefits are not included in this total.
734
-------
GOAL 3: Greater Certainty, Compliance, and Effectiveness
Objective 3.3 - Prioritize Robust Science: Refocus the EPA's robust research and scientific analysis to inform policy making.
Performance toward target overtime
Number of measures by percent of target achieved
~ 100% of target met (G)
~ No target (NT)
1 (NT)
1(G)
Summary of progress toward strategic objective:
EPA made significant progress toward the objective of aligning its science and research
portfolio with the needs of its customers, by engaging extensively internally and with
other federal, state, and local stakeholders to direct research priorities and improve
research translation efforts. In addition to delivering over 150 research products that met
its customers' needs in FY 2019, EPA's Office of Research and Development (ORD)
restructured its organization to align with core research priorities.
Challenges:
ORD continues to face challenges in retaining expertise and sustaining the right skill mix
to meet its mission. To plan for future human capital needs, ORD will continue its efforts
to increase hiring efficiencies, strengthen diversity and inclusion programs, and implement
leadership succession planning.
ORD's work is threatened by aging equipment and facility infrastructure. ORD is
evaluating operational efficiencies to lower costs of Agency equipment and facility
management with the intention of using savings for infrastructure maintenance to improve
the long-term viability of the portfolio.
FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017 FY 2018 FY 2019
735
-------
GOAL 3: Greater Certainty, Compliance, and Effectiveness
Long-Term Performance Goal - By September 30, 2022, increase the percentage of research products meeting customer needs24.
Annual performance goal that supports this long-term performance goal:
(PM RD1) Percentage of Office of Research and Development (ORD) research products meeting customer needs.
I V 2014
I V 2015
I V 201(.
I V 20 r
I V 20IS
I V 201')
I V 2020
I V 2021
I nils
Preferred
Direction
Targel
No 1 aruel
1 Siahlishal
""
SO
82
Percent
Above
Target
Actual
""
Numeralor
ri
154
Products
Dcnominalor
190
Key Takeaways:
Products delivered in FY 2019 which met customer needs included: updates to ORD's EnviroAtlas software tool which provides geospatial data on environmental stressors
and other resources to the public, an updated version of the CompTox Chemicals Dashboard which integrates available information to help decision-makers and scientists
quickly and efficiently evaluate thousands of chemicals, and a series of scientific and regulatory support products developed to support National Ambient Air Quality
Standards programs.
Metric Details: Customer satisfaction is evaluated through a robust survey process. The survey engages approximately 200 key users of ORD products. Survey respondents
evaluate the scientific rigor of research products (quality), product relevance (usability), and timeliness of product delivery. The survey results are estimated at a 90% confidence
interval of ±10 products. In accordance with recommendations made by the EPA Office of the Inspector General, ORD will submit to the Office of Management and Budget an
Information Collection Request (ICR) which, if approved, would allow ORD to survey more than nine non-federal external customers in future rounds of data collection.
24 Measure text updated from "By September 30, 2022, increase the number of research products meeting customer needs." (Footnote updated from FY 2018-2022 EPA Strategic
Plan published February 12, 2018.)
736
-------
GOAL 3: Greater Certainty, Compliance, and Effectiveness
Objective 3.4 - Streamline and Modernize: Issue permits more quickly and modernize our permitting and reporting systems.
Performance toward target overtime
Number of measures by percent of target achieved
I No target (NT)
FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017 FY 2018 FY 2019
Number of New Permit Applications in Backlog
¦ NPDES ¦ U1C all classes ¦ PCB Approvals ;¦ RCRA
Summary of progress toward strategic objective:
Reduced the number of permit decisions that exceed six months by 53% (see graph on the
lower left). Note that these totals do not include permits with statutory timeframes longer
than six months.
Developed tools, which include a centralized system to track pending permit applications
and an approach to allow the agency to deny permits based on incomplete applications, to
improve permitting efficiency agencywide.
EPA's regional offices have developed strategies and made significant shifts in resources
to address the backlog of new applications. EPA's program and regional offices created
standard work products for permit writers, established communities of practice, and some
developed work-sharing agreements to better utilize permit writer expertise.
To modernize permitting systems, EPA developed an electronic system to receive and
collaborate with state agencies on proposed Clean Air Act (CAA) Title V operating
permits. EPA expects this system, which states could use instead of the current paper-
based process, to significantly improve the efficiency and timeliness of required reviews
of proposed Title V permits. The Agency is also exploring the possibility of automating
the Clean Water Act National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit
application form.
Challenges:
EPA's FY 2022 long term performance goal may be influenced by limited available FTE
and contract resources; some permit applications may take more time due to complex
issues, public interest, and required consultations.
737
-------
GOAL 3: Greater Certainty, Compliance, and Effectiveness
Long-Term Performance Goal - By September 30, 2022, reach all permitting-related decisions within six months25.
Annual performance goal that supports this long-term performance goal:
(PM PE2) Number of new permit applications in backlog.
I V 2014
I V 2015
I V 2016
I V 20 r
I V 20IS
I V 201')
I V 2020
I V 2021
I nils
Preferred
Direct ion
\
Targel
No 1 aruel
1 Xiahlishcd
33
0
Permits
Below
Target
Actual
1 1 1
IVl'llllls
I'lCluM
laiuel
Actual
41"
Key Takeaways:
EPA began tracking this measure in May 2019. Over the first four months, the number of existing permits in backlog decreased by 13 % from 479 (as of May 31, 2019) to 417
(as of September 30, 2019).
Metric Details: This measure tracks the sum of existing permits that have passed their expiration date and are awaiting reissuance. This measure includes NPDES, UIC, RCRA,
PCBs, and Title V permits. The baseline fortius measure is 479 existing permits in backlog as of May 31, 2019. This measure tracks progress toward a FY 2020-2021 APG.
25 Baseline is 149 new permit applications in backlog as of June 30, 2018, and 479 existing permits in backlog as of May 31, 2019. (No footnote m.FY 2018-2022 EPA Strategic
Plan.)
738
-------
GOAL 3: Greater Certainty, Compliance, and Effectiveness
Other Core Work supporting Objective 3.4
Annual performance goal
(PM OZ1) Percentage of communities receiving direct technical assistance that have Opportunity Zones.
I V 2014
I V 2015
I V 201(,
I V 20 r
I V 20IS
I V 201')
I V 2020
I V 2021
I nils
Preferred
Direction
No Trend
Data
1 arjiel
(.0
70
Percent
Above
Target
\c( u ;il
Niimeralur
Communities
Denominalor
Metric Details: This measure tracks the number of communities (local governments, community organizations or regional agencies, and other locally-based stakeholders) that
receive direct technical assistance from EPA's Office of Community Revitalization (OCR) programs in support of Executive Order (EO) 13853, as a percentage of the total
number of communities that receive support from OCR. This assistance is offered through staff and contractor workshops delivered in partnership with community leaders, public
and private sector actors, and federal, state, and local stakeholders. Opportunity Zones are defined by census tracts in economically distressed communities designated by the
governors of states and territories under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, which established a new federal tax incentive to promote long-term investments in these areas. The
purpose of EO 13853 is to facilitate investment in economically distressed communities by streamlining regulations, optimizing the use of federal resources, and stimulating
economic opportunity. This is a new measure for FY 2020 and FY 2021.
739
-------
GOAL 3: Greater Certainty, Compliance, and Effectiveness
Objective 3.5 - Improve Efficiency and Effectiveness: Provide proper leadership and internal operations management to ensure that the
Agency is fulfilling its mission.
Performance toward target over time
Number of measures by percent of target achieved
~ 100% of target met (G)
~ 75-39% of target met (Y)
¦ <75% of target met (R)
~ No data (ND)
FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 FY 2017
EPA, in consultation with the Office of Management and Budget, highlighted this objective as
a focus area for improvement for the purpose of maximizing the Agency's operational
efficiency.
Summary of progress toward strategic objective:
Released 128,150 square feet of unused office and warehouse space.
Continued headquarters consolidation work that will lead to the closure of the Potomac
Yards campus by FY 2021.
Implemented 66 process improvements, exceeding target of 50.
Completed initial EPA Lean Management System (ELMS) deployment to 4,522 EPA
staff.
Achieved the 85% target and continued progress toward the long-term performance goal
of 100% Procurement Action Lead Time (PALT) achievement by FY 2022.
Received a clean opinion on EPA's Consolidated Financial Statements for the 20th
consecutive year.
Obligated $2.5 billion for 10 Water Infrastructure Finance Improvement Act loans,
bringing the total loan amount to $3.56 billion, and processed the first loan disbursement.
Adopted three additional shared services.
Challenges:
Developing enterprise-wide systems and tools for current and future business needs
requires significant time, balancing multiple stakeholders, and a deep understanding of
complex Agency needs. It can be challenging to reach a consensus that serves all
organizations but ensures that solutions will be effective in the short and long term.
Complex and evolving threats require vigilance in cybersecurity protections.
Opportunities exist in maintaining focus on the federal-government-wide Continuous
Diagnostics & Mitigation (CDM) effort and EPA-specific projects that complement CDM.
EPA has a high number of retirement-eligible staff in the next few years. EPA is
leveraging recently deployed human capital management tools to ensure effective
knowledge transfer and succession planning.
Achieving the goal of improving 250 operational process by FY 2022 will require ELMS
deployment to 80% of EPA's work units by FY 2020, as compared with 33% in FY 2019.
EPA missed the target for reducing the number of Agency administrative subsystems, but
is making progress to consolidate agency audit, financial management and payment
tracking systems.
740
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GOAL 3: Greater Certainty, Compliance, and Effectiveness
Long-Term Performance Goal - By September 30, 2022, reduce unused office and warehouse space by 850,641 square feet26.
Annual performance goal that supports this long-term performance goal:
(PM FA1) Reduction in EPA Space (sq. ft. owned and leased).
I V 2014
I V 2015
I V 201(.
I V 20 r
I V 20IS
I V 201')
I V 2020
I V 2021
I nils
Preferred
Direct ion
V
Tariiel
241
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Square 1 eel
\hn\ e
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I4&27X
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Key Takeaways:
EPA is on track to meet the long-term performance goal of releasing over 850,641 square feet of space by the end of FY 2022.
EPA missed the FY 2019 target by 35,476 square feet, largely due to the release of the Gross lie research facility (35,000 square feet.) being pushed from FY 2019 to FY 2020
as well as logistical delays in other consolidation efforts.
Metric Details: This measure tracks usable square feet of office and warehouse space released with data collected from EPA facility manager notifications, and reports generated
when there is a modification to an Occupancy Agreement. Space consolidation efforts will result in EPA becoming a more efficient and effective Agency by reducing lease, utility,
security and other facility management costs, which will enable the Agency to direct resources to core environmental work.
26 Baseline is 5,264,846 square feet as of FY 2017.
741
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GOAL 3: Greater Certainty, Compliance, and Effectiveness
Long-Term Performance Goal - By September 30, 2022, reduce procurement processing times by achieving 100% of procurement action
lead times (PALT)27.
Annual performance goal that supports this long-term performance goal:
(PM PR1) Percentage of contract actions processed within the Procurement Action Lead Time (PALT) Standards.
I V 2014
I V 2015
I V 201(,
I V 20 r
I V 20IS
I V 201<)
I V 2020
I V 2021
I nils
Preferred
Direct inn
No Trend
Data
1 arjicl
SA. 75
CP: 65
FAA: 80
85
90
95
Percent
Above
Target
Actual
SA: 70
CP: 88
FAA: 76
X5
Numerator
SA:704
CP: 21
FAA: 3,038
9,269
Actions
Dcnomiiialor
SA: 1,007
CP: 24
FAA: 4,002
10,906
Key Takeaways:
EPA met the FY 2019 target and will continue to improve results to meet the long-term performance goal of 100% PALT achievement by FY 2022.
EPA continues to leverage ELMS to identify process improvement opportunities around PALT.
Metric Details: For FY 2018, this measure tracked the timeliness of the Agency's processing of contract actions for Simplified Acquisitions (SA), Competitive Proposals (CP), and
Funding and Administrative Actions (FAA) with data collected from EPA's Acquisition System (EAS) as well as information from EPA contract officer representatives (CORs)
and contract officers (COs). Timeliness is measured in processing days from the date the procurement request (PR) is released in EAS to the date the contract is awarded. PALT
Standards are outlined in Section 7.1.1 of the EPA Acquisition Guide. As a result of these efforts, EPA became a more efficient and effective agency by reducing processing time
and costs. Beginning in FY 2019, EPA is reporting results for all acquisition categories against the September 30, 2018 baseline of 77% for all contract actions awarded within
PALT. FY 2018 actuals were reported against a January 1, 2018 baseline of: 47% SA; 65% CP; and 67% FAA.
27 Baseline, as of September 30, 2018 is 77% for all contract actions awarded within PALT. (Footnote updated from / ) 2018-2022 EPA Strategic Plan published February 12,
2018.)
742
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GOAL 3: Greater Certainty, Compliance, and Effectiveness
Long-Term Performance Goal - By September 30, 2022, improve 250 operational processes.
Annual performance goal that supports this long-term performance goal:
(PM OP1) Number of operational processes improved.
I V 2014
I V 2015
I V 201(,
I V 20 r
I V 20IS
I V 201')
I V 2020
I V 2021
l nils
Preferred
Direct ion
1 arjiel
25
5(1
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hwcsscs
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Key Takeaways:
EPA surpassed its performance target by 32% in FY 2019 by reporting 66 process improvements against a target of 50. The increase in process improvements correlates with
deployment of ELMS agencywide. ELMS is a means to promote continuous improvement and uses Lean principles and tools, paired with routine monitoring, measurement
and engagement to identify problems, solve problems, and sustain improvements. Examples of process improvements include:
o EPA Region 5 Great Lakes National Program Office reduced their funding timeframes in Great Lakes Restoration Initiative Grants from 34 days to 14 days with more
than three months of sustained improvement (59% improvement),
o EPA Region 9 Land Division streamlined the tribal grants process, reducing from 136 steps to 56 steps (59% improvement).
o EPA Region 7 Air and Radiation Division improved the quality of draft Title V operating permits from a 14% first time quality rate to an 84% first time quality rate and is
continuing to improve (500% improvement),
o EPA's Office of the Chief Financial Officer and Office of Compliance improved the Superfund Cost Recovery process by decreasing the number of days to complete a
cost recovery request from 30 days to five days (83% improvement).
The Agency expects each EPA regional or program office to report at least 10 process improvements by FY 2022.
Metric Details: EPA is applying Lean principles to improve the efficiency and cost effectiveness of its operations. An operational process is a sequence of activities that results in
the delivery of a service. A process is counted as improved if it meets the following criteria: (1) at least 25% improvement over the baseline (stated in measurable/quantifiable
terms); (2) visual management is associated with the process; and (3) standard work was created for the process.
Long-Term Performance Goal - By September 30, 2022, increase enterprise adoption of shared services by four28.
Annual performance goals that support this long-term performance goal:
(PM CF1) Number of administrative shared services.
I V 2014
I V 2015
I V 201(,
iy 20 r
I V 20IS
I V 201')
I V 2020
I V 2021
I nils
Preferred
Direction
Tariiel
(.
"
8
10
Shared
Services
Above
Target
\c( ii ;il
4
4
4
4
4
"
28 Baseline is four administrative systems/operations shared services in FY 2017. (Footnote updated from / ) 2018-2022 EPA Strategic Plan published February 12, 2018.)
743
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GOAL 3: Greater Certainty, Compliance, and Effectiveness
Key Takeaways:
Three administrative shared services were deployed in FY 2019: FedTalent for employee training, USAccess for employee identification, and Enterprise Physical Access
Systems (ePACS) for federal buildings.
In FY 2020, EPA plans to adopt one additional shared service: E-Invoicing for vendor payments.
Metric Details: EPA will adopt additional federal shared services when supported by business case analyses. Federal shared services are shared across multiple federal agencies.
Enterprise adoption of shared services will ensure consistency and scalability in tools and services, enabling the Agency to standardize internal operational processes, control costs,
and improve data quality. In FY 2019, EPA refined the scope of this measure to include only systems or services where federal shared service providers (FSSPs) were adopted, and
to no longer include internal agencywide shared services. This revision resulted in a change to the baseline of existing shared services from five to four. The four administrative
shared services in place as of the end of FY 2017 were: Human Resources Line of Business (Interior Business Center/FPPS), Payroll (IBC/PeoplePlus), Travel (Concur), and
Financial Management (CGI Federal/Compass). No additional shared services were adopted in FY 2018, but the FY 2018 actual was changed from five to four as a result of the
revised baseline.
(PM CF2) Number of Agency administrative subsystems.
I V 2014
I V 2015
I V 201(,
I V 20 r
I V 20IS
I V 201')
I V 2020
I V 2021
l nils
Preferred
l)i reel ion
-
1 arjicl
24
::
::
:i
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I'lCluM
Taipei
Actual
29
29
Key Takeaways:
EPA missed the FY 2019 target as a result of reevaluating available resources, timelines and feasibility for retiring various administrative systems.
EPA is making progress to consolidate agency audit, financial management and payment tracking systems, with a planned decrease of seven Agency administrative systems in
2020 in order to meet the FY 2020 target.
Metric Details: Reducing the number of administrative system interfaces allows EPA users to more easily input and access data and standardizes reporting as payment processing
is moved to a federal shared service provider. This has a positive impact on streamlining operational processes and drives the integration of financial transactions across multiple
administrative systems, reducing manual entry, and improving data quality. The focus is currently on establishing an integrated end-to-end delivery of financial transactions for
contracts, grants, and Interagency Agreements into Compass. In FY 2019, EPA adjusted the scope of this measure to include additional administrative subsystems which were not
previously counted. This revision resulted in a change to the baseline of existing administrative subsystems from 26 to 29.
744
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