Assessment of the Adequacy of the EPA Indemnification Study Required by Section 25(a) of the Toxic Substances Control Act
Gao ID: RCED-84-170 August 3, 1984Pursuant to a legislative requirement, GAO reported on the adequacy of a study by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of whether and under what conditions indemnification should be accorded any person as a result of EPA actions under federal law.
GAO found that, because of delays and difficulties in conducting the study, EPA did not submit it to Congress until 5 years after it was due. GAO also found that the study provided a comprehensive examination of the legal and policy issues involved in indemnification and provided an adequate framework to assist Congress in deciding whether EPA needs new indemnification programs. GAO believes that the study adequately satisfied the requirements of the Toxic Substances Control Act. GAO advised Congress that it is reviewing indemnification under the Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act.