EPA Extends Comment Period for Florida Water Quality Standards

In an effort to ensure that Florida residents voices are heard, the U.S Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is extending the comment period for the agency's proposed water quality standards. The comment period is being extended for 30 days and will now end on April 28. The agency will also hold three more public hearings in Florida to obtain additional input and comments on the proposed rulemaking. Planning for the additional hearings is underway and the hearings are targeted for mid-April in several cities across the state.

These proposed water standards will protect people's health, aquatic life and the long-term recreational uses of Florida's waters, a critical part of the state's economy. EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson announced the extension today in a meeting with senior EPA officials and members of the Florida's Congressional delegation. In February, EPA held seven public hearing sessions on the proposed standards in Tallahassee, Orlando and Fort Lauderdale...