Publication Summary

The 2001 Legislature directed the Department of Ecology (Ecology) to conduct an assessment of state and federal requirements that apply to hazardous waste management facilities. This action was taken in response to recent closures of facilities that left substantial economic liabilities for public agencies, former customers and property owners.

This report provides details of Ecology′s assessment, with a focus on financial responsibility requirements. Ecology believes there are significant problems and risks with the current system in place to oversee this industry. Options are identified and recommendations are made for how to resolve those problems, reduce long-term liability and move toward a more stable and healthy hazardous waste management system.