EPA proposed to exclude 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene and trans-1,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene from the definition of volatile organic compounds for SIP purposes. 

SIP Approval: Indiana (metal and plastic parts surface coating rules).

SIP Proposal: Indiana (metal and plastic parts surface coating rule).

FWS announced a 12-month finding on a petition to list a distinct population segment of the red tree vole as endangered or threatened and to designate critical habitat under the ESA; the agency found that listing is warranted but precluded by higher priority actions. 

United States v. City of Welch, No. 1:11-cv-00647 (S.D. W. Va. Sept. 21, 2011). Settling CWA defendants that violated NPDES permit requirements must pay a $5,000 civil penalty to the United States and West Virginia, must pay stipulated penalties for periods of noncompliance, and must perform a series of injunctive relief measures.

United States v. Smith, No. 3:10-cv-05364-BHS (W.D. Wash. Oct. 6, 2011). Settling CWA defendants that discharged pollutants into waters of the United States without a permit must pay a civil penalty contingent upon certain circumstances.

United States v. Newmont USA Ltd., No. 05-020-JLQ (E.D. Wash. Sept. 30, 2011). A settling CERCLA defendant responsible for violations at the Midnite Mine Superfund site on the Spokane Indian Reservation in Stevens County, Washington, must pay $18.7 million in U.S. response costs incurred at the site and must perform the EPA-selected cleanup for the site.

United States v. John Morrell & Co., No. 4:11-cv-04143-LLP (D.S.D. Oct. 7, 2011). A settling CAA defendant responsible for violations at its slaughterhouse and meatpacking facility in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, must pay a $206,000 civil penalty and must institute new labeling procedures. 

SIP Proposal: Virginia (one-hour primary NAAQS for sulfur dioxide).

SIP Proposal: Virginia (one-hour primary NAAQS for sulfur dioxide).