In FY 1991-92, the DOH inspected its own facilities as well as those of the Departments of Agriculture, Education, Defense, Public Safety, and Transportation. Repeat violators were another problem identified by the audit. In the case of hazardous waste facilities, the EPA bears responsibility for enforcement. That agency came under criticism by the auditor for its failure to pursue violators identified by state inspectors in a timely and effective manner. In 1991, the Legislature established a revolving fund that would provide loans to help underground storage tank owners upgrade their tanks.
Fees paid by tank owners capitalize the fund.
It hopes by June 30 of this year to apply for hazardous waste delegation of authority, he says. Authorization should occur within the year following application, Lewin says. No new positions will be sought for the hazardous waste or underground storage tanks programs, however which, Lewin says, will be addressed in the next biennium budget request. Since last spring, the Department of Health's Solid and Hazardous Waste Branch has been headless, following the departure of branch chief Arlene Kabei. Last month, Steven Chang filled the position.