KentSmashtacos t1_jas2ion wrote
Reply to comment by random6x7 in Here’s the real reason the EPA doesn’t want to test for toxins in East Palestine | Stephen Lester by hahahoudini
Several points.. Why couldn't the EPA simply require payment for the necessary supplies and costs to perform said tests in-house by charging NS the bill. Seems obvious.
The background dioxin contamination would likely be recorded in surrounding areas by referencing commercial farms that perform regular soil tests.
random6x7 t1_jas7w0z wrote
They're probably just not set up for it. It takes time to do the necessary surveys and testing and report preparation. It takes less time, but still a lot of it, to write contracts, send them out for bid, and choose a consultant to do the work. The government at all levels is already understaffed thanks to years of hiring freezes and budget cuts, and I can guarantee the Trump years did a number on people's willingness to join the EPA.
Plus, what do they do when Norfolk Southern stalls on paying the bill? Add higher interest rates? I mean, sure, but levying huge fines while they get dragged through the court of public opinion would be worse than just a bill they refuse to pay while everyone else forgets about the incident.
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