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Goal is to enhance dialogue between tribes and EPA officials

WASHINGTON (EPA) – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is seeking comment on the agency’s proposed “Policy on Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribes.” The goals of the policy are to involve tribal officials when EPA is taking actions or implementing decisions that may affect tribes. It identifies clear standards for the consultation process, including defining on what, when, and how consultation will take place; designates specific EPA personnel responsible for serving as consultation points of contact in order to promote consistency, and coordination in the consultation process; and establishes a management oversight and reporting structure that will ensure accountability and transparency.

The document builds on EPA’s 1984 Indian Policy and complies with the Presidential Memorandum on Tribal Consultation issued Nov. 5, 2009, directing agencies to develop a plan to fully implement Executive Order 13175.

EPA’s proposed policy will be available for public comment for 60 days.

More information on the proposed policy and how to comment