Source: https://regulations.justia.com/regulations/fedreg/2014/01/10/2014-00270.html
Timestamp: 2020-05-28 08:19:20
Document Index: 430156308

Matched Legal Cases: ['art 52', 'art 745', 'art 2', 'art 745', 'art 745', '§ 2', 'art 745', '§ 2', '§ 2', 'art 5', '§ 2', '§ 2', '§ 2', '§ 2', '§ 2', '§ 2', '§ 2', '§ 2', '§ 2', '§ 2', '§ 2', '§ 1502', 'art 100', 'art 2', 'art 745', 'art 745', 'art 745', 'art 5']

Lead-Based Paint Renovation, Repair and Painting, and Pre-Renovation Education Activities in Target Housing and Child Occupied Facilities; Oklahoma; Notice of Self-Certification Program Authorization, and Request for Public Comment on Self-Certification, 1799-1804 [2014-00270] :: Environmental Protection Agency :: Regulation Tracker :: Justia
Justia Regulation Tracker Environmental Protection Agency Lead-Based Paint Renovation, Repair and Painting, and Pre-Renovation Education Activities in Target Housing and Child Occupied Facilities; Oklahoma; Notice of Self-Certification Program Authorization, and Request for Public Comment on Self-Certification, 1799-1804 [2014-00270]
Lead-Based Paint Renovation, Repair and Painting, and Pre-Renovation Education Activities in Target Housing and Child Occupied Facilities; Oklahoma; Notice of Self-Certification Program Authorization, and Request for Public Comment on Self-Certification, 1799-1804 [2014-00270]
Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 7 / Friday, January 10, 2014 / Proposed Rules mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS (July 20, 2011, 76 FR 43490) (Biogenic CO2 Deferral Rule). Idaho’s update to incorporate by reference the EPA’s PSD permitting rules as of July 1, 2012, includes this revision to 40 CFR 52.21(b)(49)(ii)(a). On July 12, 2013, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia, in Center for Biological Diversity v. EPA, No. 11–1101 (D.C. Cir. July 12, 2013), vacated the Biogenic CO2 Deferral Rule. At this time, the Court has not issued the mandate in this case and the vacatur is therefore not in effect. In light of this situation, we are proposing to take no action on Idaho’s incorporation by reference of the revision to 40 CFR 52.21(b)(49)(ii)(a) at this time. The EPA is proposing to approve all other aspects of Idaho’s incorporation by reference of 40 CFR 52.21 as of July 1, 2012 in IDAPA 58.01.01.107.03(c), other than those discussed in Sections II.B.2 and II.B.3 of this proposal. III. Proposed Action The EPA is proposing to partially approve the May 9, 2013, submittal from Idaho to update the incorporation by reference of Federal air quality regulations into the SIP and make minor edits and clarifications. Specifically, we are proposing to approve the revisions to IDAPA 58.01.01.107.03 ‘‘Incorporations by Reference,’’ except as noted below; IDAPA 58.01.01.006 ‘‘General Definitions;’’ IDAPA 58.01.01.220 ‘‘General Exemption Criteria for Permit to Construct Exemptions;’’ and IDAPA 58.01.01.222 ‘‘Category II Exemption.’’ The EPA is proposing to grant limited approval, as SIP strengthening, to a portion of the submittal that incorporates by reference updates to the Federal nonattainment NSR requirements at 40 CFR 51.165 that have been recently remanded to the EPA by a court. We are proposing to partially disapprove the revision to IDAPA 58.01.01.107.03(c) as it relates to the incorporation by reference of specific vacated provisions at 40 CFR 52.21 (namely, 40 CFR 52.21(i)(5)(i)(c) and 40 CFR 52.21(k)(2)). We are proposing to take no action on the revision to IDAPA 58.01.01.107.03(c) as it relates to the incorporation by reference of the vacated revision to 40 CFR 52.21(b)(49)(ii)(a). Upon final action, the Idaho SIP would incorporate by reference specific Federal regulations as of July 1, 2012. IV. Statutory and Executive Order Reviews Under the CAA, the Administrator is required to approve a SIP submission that complies with the provisions of the VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:33 Jan 09, 2014 Jkt 232001 CAA and applicable Federal regulations. 42 U.S.C. 7410(k); 40 CFR 52.02(a). Thus, in reviewing SIP submissions, the EPA’s role is to approve state choices, provided that they meet the criteria of the CAA. Accordingly, this action merely approves state law as meeting Federal requirements and does not impose additional requirements beyond those imposed by state law. For that reason, this action: • Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ subject to review by the Office of Management and Budget under Executive Order 12866 (58 FR 51735, October 4, 1993); • does not impose an information collection burden under the provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act (44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.); • is certified as not having a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities under the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.); • does not contain any unfunded mandate or significantly or uniquely affect small governments, as described in the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (Pub. L. 104–4); • does not have Federalism implications as specified in Executive Order 13132 (64 FR 43255, August 10, 1999); • is not an economically significant regulatory action based on health or safety risks subject to Executive Order 13045 (62 FR 19885, April 23, 1997); • is not a significant regulatory action subject to Executive Order 13211 (66 FR 28355, May 22, 2001); • is not subject to the requirements of Section 12(d) of the National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act of 1995 (15 U.S.C. 272 note) because this action does not involve technical standards; and • does not provide the EPA with the discretionary authority to address, as appropriate, disproportionate human health or environmental effects, using practicable and legally permissible methods, under Executive Order 12898 (59 FR 7629, February 16, 1994). In addition, this rule does not have tribal implications as specified by Executive Order 13175 (65 FR 67249, November 9, 2000), because the SIP is not approved to apply in Indian country located in the State, and the EPA notes that it will not impose substantial direct costs on tribal governments or preempt tribal law. List of Subjects in 40 CFR Part 52 Environmental protection, Air pollution control, Incorporation by reference, Particulate matter, and PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 1799 Reporting and recordkeeping requirements. Authority: 42 U.S.C. 7401 et seq. Dated: December 30, 2013. Michelle L. Pirzadeh, Acting Regional Administrator, Region 10. [FR Doc. 2014–00274 Filed 1–9–14; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6560–50–P ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY 40 CFR Part 745 [EPA–R06–OPPT–2013–0398; FRL–9905– 14–Region 6] Lead-Based Paint Renovation, Repair and Painting, and Pre-Renovation Education Activities in Target Housing and Child Occupied Facilities; Oklahoma; Notice of Self-Certification Program Authorization, and Request for Public Comment on SelfCertification Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). ACTION: Self-certification program authorization and request for comments. AGENCY: This document announces that on March 25, 2013, the State of Oklahoma was deemed authorized under section 404(a) of the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), to administer and enforce requirements for a renovation, repair and painting program (RRP) and a lead-based paint pre-renovation education program (PRE) in accordance with 406(b) of TSCA. This document also announces that EPA is seeking comment during a 45-day public comment period on the State of Oklahoma’s self-certification. This document also announces that the authorization of the Oklahoma 402(c)(3) and 406(b) programs, which was deemed authorized by regulation and statute on March 25, 2013, will continue without further notice unless EPA, based on its own review and/or comments received during the comment period, disapproves this Oklahoma program application. DATES: Comments identified by Docket Control Number EPA–R06–OPPT–2013– 0398, must be received on or before February 24, 2014. ADDRESSES: Comments may be submitted by mail, electronically, or in person. Please follow the detailed instructions for each method as provided in Section I of this notice. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: To ensure proper receipt by EPA, it is important that you identify Docket Control Number EPA–R06–OPPT–2013–0398 in SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\10JAP1.SGM 10JAP1 1800 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 7 / Friday, January 10, 2014 / Proposed Rules the subject line on the first page of your response. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Cindy Parker, Toxics Section, Toxics, Pesticides and Underground Storage Tanks Branch, Multimedia Planning and Permitting Division, United States Environmental Protection Agency, 1445 Ross Avenue, Ste 1200, Dallas, Texas 75202–2733. The telephone number where Ms. Parker can be reached is: (214) 665–7291. Ms. Parker can be contacted via electronic mail at parker.cindy@epa.gov.mailto: SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Table of Contents I. General Information II. Background III. State Program Description Summaries IV. Federal Overfiling V. Withdrawal of Authorization I. General Information A. Does this action apply to me? mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS This action is directed to the public in general, to entities offering Lead Safe Renovation courses, and to firms and individuals engaged in renovation and remodeling activities of pre-1978 housing and child-occupied facilities in the State of Oklahoma. Individuals and firms falling under the North American Industrial Classification System (NAICS) codes 231118, 238210, 238220, 238320, 531120, 531210, 53131, e.g., General Building Contractors/Operative Builders, Renovation Firms, Individual Contractors, and Special Trade Contractors like Carpenters, Painters, Drywall Workers and Plumbers, ‘‘Home Improvement’’ Contractors, as well as Property Management Firms and some Landlords are also affected by these rules. This listing is not intended to be exhaustive, but rather provides a guide for readers regarding entities likely to be affected by this action. Other types of entities not listed here could also be affected. The NAICS codes have been provided to assist you and others in determining whether this action might apply to certain entities. If you have any questions regarding the applicability of this action to a particular entity, consult the technical person listed under FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT. B. How can I get additional information, including copies of this document or other related documents? 1. Electronically: you may obtain electronic copies of this document, and certain other related documents that might be available electronically, from the EPA Internet Home Page at http:// www.epa.gov/ or from http:// www.regulations.gov/. You can also go VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:33 Jan 09, 2014 Jkt 232001 directly to the Federal Register listings at http://www.gpoaccess.gov/fr/. 2. In person: you may read this document, and certain other related documents, by visiting the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality, Central Records, 707 North Robinson Street, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73102. You should arrange your visit to the ODEQ office by contacting Rhonda Craig, 405–702–0152, or by email at Rhonda.Craig@deq.ok.gov. You may also read this document, and certain other related documents, by visiting the United States Environmental Protection Agency, Region 6 Office, 1445 Ross Avenue, Ste 700, Dallas, TX 75202. You should arrange your visit to the EPA office by contacting the technical person listed under FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT. Also, EPA has established an official record for this action under Docket Control Number EPA–R06– OPPT–2013–0398. The official record consists of the documents specifically referenced in this action, this notice, the State of Oklahoma 402(c)(3) and 406(b) program authorization applications, documents related to EPA’s offer to consult with any affected Tribes in Oklahoma, any public comments received during an applicable comment period, and other information related to this action. C. How and to whom do I submit comments? You may submit comments through the mail, in person, or electronically. To ensure proper receipt by EPA, it is important that you identify Docket Identification Number EPA–R06–OPPT– 2013–0398 in the subject line on the first page of your response. Submit your comments, by one of the following methods: 1. http://www.regulations.gov: Follow the on-line instructions for submitting comments. 2. By mail: Submit your comments and hearing requests to: Cindy Parker, Toxics Section, 6PD–T, United States Environmental Protection Agency, 1445 Ross Avenue, Ste 1200, Dallas, Texas 75202–2733. 3. By person or courier: Deliver your comments and hearing requests to: Cindy Parker, Toxics Section, Multimedia Planning and Permitting Division, United States Environmental Protection Agency, 1445 Ross Avenue, Ste 700, Dallas, Texas 75202–2733. Such deliveries are only accepted during the Regional Office’s normal hours of operation. The Regional Office’s official hours of business are Monday through Friday, 8:30 to 4:30, excluding federal holidays. 4. By fax: 214–665–6655. PO 00000 Frm 00029 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 5. By email: You may submit your comments and hearing requests electronically by email to: parker.cindy@epa.gov, or mail your computer disk to the address identified above. Do not submit any information electronically that you consider Confidential Business Information (CBI). Electronic comments must be submitted as an ASCII file avoiding the use of special characters and any form of encryption. Comments and data will also be accepted on standard disks in Microsoft Word or ASCII file format. Instructions: Direct your comments to Docket ID Number EPA–R06–OPPT– 2013–0398. EPA’s policy is that all comments received will be included in the public docket without change and may be made available online at http://www.regulations.gov including any personal information provided, unless the comment includes information claimed to be Confidential Business Information (CBI) or other information whose disclosure is restricted by statute. Do not submit information that you consider to be CBI or otherwise protected through http:// www.regulations.gov or email. The http://www.regulations.gov Web site is an ‘‘anonymous access’’ system, which means EPA will not know your identity or contact information unless you provide it in the body of your comment. If you send an email comment directly to EPA without going through http:// www.regulations.gov, your email address will be automatically captured and included as part of the comment that is placed in the public docket and made available on the Internet. If you submit an electronic comment, EPA recommends that you include your name and other contact information in the body of your comment and with any disk or CD–ROM you submit. If EPA cannot read your comment due to technical difficulties and cannot contact you for clarification, EPA may not be able to consider your comment. Electronic files should avoid the use of special characters or any form of encryption, and be free of any defects or viruses. For additional information about EPA’s public docket, visit the EPA Docket Center homepage at http:// www.epa.gov/epahome/dockets.htm. Docket: All documents in the docket are listed in the http:// www.regulations.gov index. Although listed in the index, some information is not publicly available, e.g., CBI or other information whose disclosure is restricted by statute. Certain other material, such as copyrighted material, will be publicly available only in hard copy. Publicly available docket materials are available either E:\FR\FM\10JAP1.SGM 10JAP1 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 7 / Friday, January 10, 2014 / Proposed Rules electronically in http:// www.regulations.gov or in hard copy. D. How should I handle CBI information that I want to submit to the agency? Do not submit this information to EPA through regulations.gov or email. Clearly mark on each page the part or all of the information that you claim to be CBI. For CBI information in a disk or CD–ROM that you mail to EPA, mark the outside of the disk or CD–ROM that you mail to EPA as CBI, and then identify electronically within the disk or CD–ROM the specific information that is claimed as CBI. In addition to one complete version of the comment that includes information claimed as CBI, a copy of the comment that does not contain the information claimed as CBI must be submitted for inclusion in the public docket. Information so marked as CBI will not be disclosed except in accordance with procedures set forth in 40 CFR Part 2. If you have any questions about CBI or the procedures for claiming CBI, please consult the technical person identified under FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT. E. What should I consider as I prepare my comments for EPA? You may find the following suggestions helpful for preparing your comments. 1. Explain your views as clearly as possible. 2. Describe any assumptions that you use. 3. Provide copies of any technical information and/or data you use that support your views. 4. If you estimate potential burden or costs, explain how you arrive at the estimate that you provide. 5. Provide specific examples to illustrate your concerns. 6. Offer alternative ways to improve the notice or collection activity. 7. Make sure to submit your comments by the deadline in this notice. 8. To ensure proper receipt by EPA, identify the Docket Control Number assigned to this action in the subject line on the first page of your response. You may also provide the name, date, and Federal Register citation. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS II. Background A. What action is the agency taking? EPA is announcing that the State of Oklahoma on March 25, 2013, was deemed authorized under section 404(a) of TSCA, 15 U.S.C. 2684(a) and 40 CFR 745.324(d)(2), to administer and enforce requirements for a renovation, repair and painting program in accordance VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:33 Jan 09, 2014 Jkt 232001 with section 402(c)(3) of TSCA, 15 U.S.C. 2682(c)(3), and a lead-based paint pre-renovation education program in accordance with section 406(b) of TSCA, 15 U.S.C. 2686(b). This notice also announces that EPA is seeking comment on Oklahoma’s selfcertification. The 402(c)(3) program ensures that training providers are accredited to teach renovation classes, that individuals performing renovation activities are properly trained and certified as renovators, that firms are certified as renovation firms, and that specific work practices are followed during renovation activities. The 406(b) program ensures that owners and occupants of target housing are provided information concerning potential hazards of lead-based paint exposure before certain renovations are begun. On March 25, 2013, Oklahoma submitted an application under section 404 of TSCA requesting authorization to administer and enforce requirements for a renovation, repair and painting program in accordance with section 402(c)(3) of TSCA, and a pre-renovation education program in accordance with section 406(b) of TSCA, and submitted a self-certification that these programs are at least as protective as the federal programs and provide for adequate enforcement. Therefore, pursuant to section 404(a) of TSCA, and 40 CFR 745.324(d)(2), the Oklahoma renovation program and pre-renovation education program are deemed authorized as of the date of submission and until such time as the Agency disapproves the program application or withdraws program authorization. Pursuant to section 404(b) of TSCA and 40 CFR 745.324(e)(2), EPA is providing notice and an opportunity for public comment on Oklahoma’s self-certification. The authorization of the Oklahoma 402(c)(3) and 406(b) programs, which were deemed authorized by EPA on March 25, 2013, will continue without further notice unless EPA, based on its own review and/or comments received during the comment period, disapproves one or both of these Oklahoma program applications. Oklahoma is not authorized to carry out its RRP or PRE programs in ‘‘Indian Country’’, as defined in 18 USC 1151. Therefore, this action has no effect on Indian country. EPA retains the authority to implement and administer the RRP and PRE programs on these lands. In accordance with the EPA policy on Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribes, EPA Region 6 has offered government-to-government consultation to all Tribes within the State of PO 00000 Frm 00030 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 1801 Oklahoma. Any requested consultations will be conducted in accordance with the policy and completed by the date of the end of the public comment period February 24, 2014. Tribal consultation will be conducted in accordance with the EPA policy on Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribes (www.epa.gov/tribal/consultation/ consult-policy.htm). B. What is EPA’s authority for taking this action? On October 28, 1992, the Housing and Community Development Act of 1992, Public Law 102–550, became law. Title X of that statute was the Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act of 1992. That Act amended TSCA (15 U.S.C. 2601 et seq.) by adding Title IV (15 U.S.C. 2681–2692), entitled ‘‘Lead Exposure Reduction.’’ On April 22, 2008, EPA promulgated the final TSCA section 402(c)(3) regulations governing renovation activities. See 73 FR 21692. These regulations require that in order to do renovation activities for compensation, renovators must first be properly trained and certified, must be associated with a certified renovation firm, and must follow specific work practice standards, including recordkeeping requirements. In addition, the rule prescribes requirements for the training and certification of dust sampling technicians. On June 1, 1998, EPA promulgated the final TSCA section 406(b) regulations governing prerenovation education requirements in target housing. See 63 FR 29908. This program ensures that owners and occupants of target housing are provided information concerning potential hazards of lead-based paint exposure before certain renovations are begun on that housing. In addition to providing general information on the health hazards associated with exposure to lead, EPA developed the lead hazard information pamphlet. This pamphlet advises owners and occupants to take appropriate precautions to avoid exposure to lead-contaminated dust and debris that are sometimes generated during renovations. EPA believes that regulation of renovation activities and the distribution of the pamphlet will help to reduce the exposures that cause serious lead poisonings, especially in children under age 6, who are particularly susceptible to the hazards of lead. Under section 404 of TSCA, a state may seek authorization from EPA to administer and enforce its own prerenovation education program or renovation, repair and painting program in lieu of the federal programs. The E:\FR\FM\10JAP1.SGM 10JAP1 1802 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 7 / Friday, January 10, 2014 / Proposed Rules mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS regulations governing the authorization of a state program under both sections 402 and 406 of TSCA are codified at 40 CFR Part 745, subpart Q. States that choose to apply for program authorization must submit a complete application to the appropriate regional EPA office for review. Those applications will be reviewed by EPA within 180 days of receipt of the complete application. To receive EPA approval, a state must demonstrate that its program is at least as protective of human health and the environment as the federal program, and provides for adequate enforcement, as required by Section 404(b) of TSCA. EPA’s regulations at 40 CFR Part 745, subpart Q, provide the detailed requirements a state program must meet in order to obtain EPA approval. A state may choose to certify that its own prerenovation education program or renovation, repair and painting program meets the requirements for EPA approval, by submitting a letter signed by the Governor or Attorney General stating that the program is at least as protective of human health and the environment as the federal program and provides for adequate enforcement. Upon submission of such a certification letter, the program is deemed authorized pursuant to TSCA section 404(a) and 40 CFR 745.324(d)(2). This authorization becomes ineffective, however, if EPA disapproves the application or withdraws the program authorization. III. State Program Description Summaries A. The following excerpt is from the renovation, repair and painting program description submitted in Oklahoma’s self-certification application: The Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) submits this application with the intent of selfcertifying for authorization of the federal Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) program, along with the PreRenovation Education program. The Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) currently administers a comprehensive lead-based paint (LBP) management program in Oklahoma with the authority of the ‘‘Oklahoma LBP Management Act’’ (Act), 27A Okla Stat. (O.S.) § 2–12–101 et seq. The LBP Management Rules, Okla. Admin. Code (OAC) 252:110–1–1 et seq. (Chapter 110) were adopted to fulfill the mandates of the Act. The Chapter 110 rules establish mechanisms for certification of individuals and firms, accreditation of training providers, and implementation of performance standards for LBP services. Chapter 110 was updated, and a new Subchapter 15 was added in 2012 VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:33 Jan 09, 2014 Jkt 232001 to allow the DEQ to seek delegation of the RRP program. In general, the RRP provisions in 40 CFR Part 745 Subpart E were incorporated by reference into the Oklahoma Administrative Code. The items not incorporated by reference are those that are otherwise mandated by the Act, or that were modified to blend the RRP program into the existing state program. The differences are minor and all concern the accreditation of training providers. The LBP/RRP program is administered by the Air Quality Division of the DEQ. The point of contact for this program is Randall Ward, Environmental Programs Manager, who can be reached by mail at Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality, Air Quality Division, P.O. Box 1677, 707 N. Robinson, Oklahoma City, OK 73101–1677, by telephone at (405) 702–4128 or by fax at (405) 702–4101. Public rulemaking hearings for the adoption of the RRP program were held in conjunction with approval of the revised Chapter 110 rules, and the rules were affirmatively approved by the Oklahoma State Legislature and the Governor on May 1, 2012. Public hearings were noticed in accordance with the Oklahoma Administrative Procedures Act, and were held on January 19, 2011; July 20, 2011; and October 5, 2011 before the Oklahoma Air Quality Council. The rules were approved by the Council on October 5, 2011, and after another public hearing on February 24, 2012 were approved by Oklahoma Environmental Quality Board. The Air Quality Division (AQD) has existed (within the Oklahoma State Department of Health and later within the DEQ) since 1971. The LBP Program is administered by the AQD and staffed by the Technical Resources and Projects Section. The various LBP program duties (enforcement, compliance, inspections, certification, accreditation, public education) are accomplished through the efforts of three full-time equivalent employees. For both LBP activity training and the RRP training, the Oklahoma LBP Management Rules (Rules) incorporate by reference the federal accreditation requirements in 40 CFR 745.225, except for those subsections that address application dates, accreditation deadlines, accredited training courses, programs that offer only refresher courses, renewal timelines, and renewal deadlines. In addition to providing the various dates, timelines and deadlines not incorporated by reference from the federal rule, the Rules limit accreditation to educational institutions PO 00000 Frm 00031 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 and government agencies that offer ongoing and continuous LBP training programs. In addition to the incorporations by reference, Oklahoma rules provide for provisional accreditation, OAC 252:110–9–5. A stakeholder task force strongly recommended an on-site evaluation of the training prior to issuing final accreditation in order to ensure that the training organization operates according to the information given in the accreditation application. Provisional accreditation allows the training facility to provide training under the conditions outlined in OAC 252:110–9–5. EPA rules do not provide for an on-site evaluation of the training program prior to the issuance of final accreditation. Therefore, Oklahoma’s provisional accreditation is essentially equivalent to EPA’s final accreditation. DEQ further ensures quality training by requiring an on-site evaluation before final accreditation is issued. Refresher courses can be accredited only if the training program has received accreditation for the initial discipline-specific training course. Programs that have been accredited by another state or agency must apply for and receive accreditation from DEQ before conducting or advertising a training course in Oklahoma. An accredited training program must notify the DEQ of course offerings, significant changes in the program, course cancellations, and personnel changes. Annual renewal is required and is based on documented implementation of compliance updates as well as satisfactory course and instructor evaluations. The Oklahoma RRP program is identical to the federal program except for the accreditation requirements. Program Elements a. Public Information and Outreach Program information (applications, regulations, statutes, lists of certified contractors, educational materials, etc.) is mailed to customers upon request. Increasingly, most of this information can be obtained through the Internet. The LBP Program pages are contained in the ‘‘Air Quality’’ subset of the DEQ Home Page (http://www.deq.state.ok.us). As program resources allow, and dependent on public demand, public outreach and education activities are performed. b. Accreditation of Training Providers The federal program for accreditation of LBP training providers is established in 40 CFR 745.225. DEQ incorporated this federal rule by reference in OAC E:\FR\FM\10JAP1.SGM 10JAP1 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 7 / Friday, January 10, 2014 / Proposed Rules 252:110–5–1(2) with the following exceptions. 745.225(a)(2), which refers to application dates, 745.225(a)(3), which refers to accreditation deadlines, 745.225(f)(1), which refers to timelines for renewal of accreditation of training programs, and 745.225(f)(2), which refers to renewal accreditation deadlines. 27A O.S. 2–12–303(D) establishes an annual renewal year for accreditations from September 1 through August 31. Likewise, accreditation timelines are established in OAC 252:110–7–2(c). In addition to incorporating by reference 745.225(f)(3) and (f)(4), DEQ provides criteria for reaccreditation of training programs at OAC 252:110–9–7. 745.225(b)(3), which refers to accredited training courses, and 745.225(e)(5), which refers to training programs offering refresher training courses. These federal rules permit a training program to offer refresher courses only. Per the eligibility requirements established in OAC 252:110–9–1, ‘‘Training programs shall not receive accreditation for a refresher course if they do not also receive accreditation for the discipline-specific initial training course.’’ This section also limits accreditation to ‘‘educational institutions and government agencies’’. c. Certification of Individuals and Firms Under the federal RRP program as incorporated by reference in the Oklahoma regulations, individuals receive their certification by completing courses at accredited training providers. RRP firms are certified by the state using the federal procedure except for the transition period from EPA to Oklahoma delegation. In that period, EPA certified firms may transfer their certification to Oklahoma without payment of fees until the certification expires. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS d. Enforcement and Compliance The Oklahoma RRP program will rely heavily upon DEQ’s Complaints system. Since 1993 the state-wide complaints program has allowed citizens access to a toll-free hotline and local Environmental Program Specialists who can provide assistance and information. The complaints system is also important to the LBP activities programs as it allows industry competitors access to an anonymous reporting system. Although the DEQ prefers education and compliance assistance for small businesses, the LBP/RRP program is VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:33 Jan 09, 2014 Jkt 232001 fully supported by the DEQ’s enforcement authority. DEQ has the statutory authority to perform inspections, pursue enforcement actions, and assess penalties. Authority To Enter State law (27A O.S. § 2–3–501) grants the authority for duly authorized representatives of the DEQ to enter, through consent or warrant, any private or public property where lead-based paint activities or training may occur to conduct inspections, take samples, and review records. Further, the Oklahoma LBP Management Act grants DEQ the power to enforce the rules, collect samples for enforcement purposes, and otherwise exercise the incidental powers necessary for enforcement. See 27A O.S. § 2–12–202(B). DEQ has further addressed the issue of entrance for inspection purposes in OAC 252:110–7–3(c), whereby holders of DEQ issued ‘‘authorizations’’ (such as certifications and accreditations) have a duty to allow DEQ representatives the right to inspect. Enforcement Remedies All environmental programs administered by DEQ are designed to focus agency efforts on assisting the regulated community with the common goal of compliance with environmental regulations. Article III, Part 5 of the ‘‘Oklahoma Environmental Quality Code,’’ (27A O.S. § 2–1–102, et seq.), provides for the general enforcement of the DEQ rules, permits, and orders and extends to all programs administered by the DEQ (27A O.S. § 2–3–506(D)). The aforementioned remedies are in addition to those found in other Oklahoma law, including criminal statutes contained in Title 21 of the Oklahoma Statutes. The civil enforcement remedies include: i. Letters and Notices Notices of Violation. 27A O.S. § 2–3– 502(A). ii. Penalty Authority The DEQ may issue Administrative Compliance Orders, which may include administrative penalties for past violations and stipulated penalties for violations of Orders, and which may specify compliance requirements and schedules and/or corrective action (27A O.S. § 2–3–502(B)). After notice and opportunity for an administrative hearing, the DEQ may revoke, modify or suspend the holder’s license in part or in whole (27A O.S. § 2–3–502(D)). The DEQ may also seek injunctive relief to compel compliance with or prevent violation of any section of the Code or PO 00000 Frm 00032 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 1803 any license or order issued pursuant thereto (27A O.S. § 2–3–504(A)(4)). Violations may be punished by monetary penalties assessed in administrative proceedings (27A O.S. § 2–3–502(K)), or in civil proceedings (27A O.S. § 2–3–504(A)(2)), not to exceed $10,000.00 per day of noncompliance. iii. Criminal Authority The DEQ may request either the Attorney General or the district attorney of the appropriate district court of Oklahoma to criminally prosecute anyone who violates the Code, rules promulgated thereunder, or orders issued, or conditions of permits, licenses, certificates or other authorizations prescribed pursuant thereto (27A O.S. § 2–3–504(I)). Such violations are misdemeanors, punishable by a fine of not less than $200.00 for each violation and not more than $10,000.00 for each violation and/ or by imprisonment in the county jail for not more than six months (27A O.S. § 2–3–504(A)(1)). In addition, anyone who knowingly makes a false statement in, or omits material data from, any application for a permit, license, certificate or other authorization, or any notice, analyses or report required by the Code, rules promulgated thereunder, or permit, license, certificate or other authorization issued pursuant thereto, or who knowingly alters any sample may be guilty of a misdemeanor and subject to a fine of not more than $5,000.00 for each such violation (27A O.S. § 2–3–505). Criminal sanctions may also be imposed pursuant to Oklahoma’s Penal Code. For example, persons who make false statements when advertising a service can be guilty of a misdemeanor under 21 O.S. § 1502. Whether a violation will be recommended for criminal prosecution is a case-by-case decision to be based upon the willfulness and severity of the violation as well as the effect on human health and the environment. B. The following summary is an excerpt from Oklahoma’s renovation, repair and painting program selfcertification application: Because the Oklahoma Lead-Based Paint program already included EPAapproved training provider elements that are considerably more stringent than the federal program, Oklahoma chose to maintain that portion of the Lead-Based Paint program for use with the new RRP program. The differences include: Requirements that only educational institutions and government agencies may become accredited; providers must offer on-going programs that include both initial and refresher E:\FR\FM\10JAP1.SGM 10JAP1 1804 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 7 / Friday, January 10, 2014 / Proposed Rules training; and requirements for inspections, annual reviews, and renewal. Fees for training providers were also modified so that the annual renewal would not lead to a fee increase over the EPA program. During the public hearings before the Air Quality Council, concerns were raised that the DEQ RRP program would cause financial hardship on renovation firms and training providers that were already approved by EPA at the time of delegation approval and might have several years left before they were required to renew under the EPA program. In response, the proposed rules were amended to include transition language exempting EPAapproved firms and training providers from fees until the expiration of their EPA-approval. The Oklahoma RRP program will utilize the existing accreditation structure of inspections and close review to ensure a quality training system. The existing DEQ enforcement system will also apply to the RRP program, but for the RRP firms and their work practices, much of the enforcement will come through the DEQ complaint system. The complaint system uses a toll-free state wide number, strict timelines for response and investigation, and referral to the various DEQ divisions for expert followup. The DEQ complaint system is wellestablished and has proven effective in all programs, including the Oklahoma LBP activities program. The activities program provides a network of individuals and firms throughout the state that also self-monitor to assist in compliance. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS IV. Federal Overfiling Section 404(b) of TSCA makes it unlawful for any person to violate, or fail or refuse to comply with, any requirement of an approved state program. Therefore, EPA reserves the right to exercise its enforcement authority under TSCA against a violation of, or a failure or refusal to comply with, any requirement of an authorized state program. 16:33 Jan 09, 2014 Jkt 232001 List of Subjects in 40 CFR 745 Environmental protection, Hazardous substances, Lead poisoning, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements. Dated: December 19, 2013. Ron Curry, Regional Administrator, Region 6. [FR Doc. 2014–00270 Filed 1–9–14; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6560–50–P DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES 42 CFR Part 100 RIN 0906–AB00 National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program: Revisions to the Vaccine Injury Table Office of the Secretary, HHS. Notice of public hearing. AGENCY: ACTION: This document announces a public hearing to receive information and views on the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) entitled ‘‘National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program: Revisions to the Vaccine Injury Table.’’ DATES: The public hearing will be held on January 13, 2014, from 10:30 a.m.– 12 p.m. (EDT). ADDRESSES: The public hearing will be held in Conference Room 10–65 in the Parklawn Building, 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, Maryland 20857. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Dr. Vito Caserta, Acting Director, Division of Vaccine Injury Compensation, at 855– 266–2427 or by email vcaserta@ hrsa.gov. SUMMARY: The National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act of 1986, Title III of Public Law 99–660, as amended (42 U.S.C. 300aa–10 et seq.), established the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP) for persons found to be injured by vaccines. The Secretary has taken the necessary initial steps to propose to amend the Vaccine Injury Table to add intussusception as an injury associated with rotavirus vaccines. The NPRM was published in the Federal Register, July 24, 2013: 78 FR 44512. The public comment period closes January 21, 2014. A public hearing will be held during the 180-day public comment period. This hearing is to provide an open forum for the presentation of information and views concerning all SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: V. Withdrawal of Authorization Pursuant to section 404(c) of TSCA, the EPA Administrator may withdraw authorization of a State or Indian tribal renovation, repair and painting program, and/or a lead-based paint prerenovation education program, after notice and opportunity for corrective action, if the program is not being administered or enforced in compliance with standards, regulations, and other requirements established under the authorization. The procedures U.S. EPA VerDate Mar<15>2010 will follow for the withdrawal of an authorization are found at 40 CFR 745.324(I). PO 00000 Frm 00033 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 aspects of the NPRM by interested persons. In preparing a final regulation, the Secretary will consider the administrative record of this hearing along with all other written comments received during the comment period specified in the NPRM. Individuals or representatives of interested organizations are invited to participate in the public hearing in accord with the schedule and procedures set forth below. The hearing will be held on January 13, 2014, beginning at 10:30 a.m. and ending at 12 p.m. (EDT) in Conference Room 10–65 in the Parklawn Building, 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, Maryland 20857. Upon entering the Parklawn Building, persons who wish to attend the hearing will be required to call Ms. Andrea Herzog at (301) 443–6634 to be escorted to Conference Room 10–65. The public can also join the meeting via audio conference call: Audio Conference Call: Dial 800–369– 3104 and provide the following information: Leader’s Name: Dr. Vito Caserta Password: HRSA The presiding officer representing the Secretary, HHS will be Dr. Vito Caserta, Acting Director, Division of Vaccine Injury Compensation, Healthcare Systems Bureau (HSB), Health Resources and Services Administration. Persons who wish to participate are requested to file a notice of participation with the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) on or before January 9, 2014. The notice should be mailed to the Division of Vaccine Injury Compensation, HSB, Room 11C–26, Parklawn Building, 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, Maryland 20857 or emailed to aherzog@hrsa.gov. To ensure timely handling, any outer envelope or the subject line of an email should be clearly marked ‘‘VICP NPRM Hearing.’’ The notice of participation should contain the interested person’s name, address, email address, telephone number, any business or organizational affiliation of the person desiring to make a presentation, a brief summary of the presentation, and the approximate time requested for the presentation. Groups that have similar interests should consolidate their comments as part of one presentation. Time available for the hearing will be allocated among the persons who properly file notices of participation. If time permits, interested parties attending the hearing who did not submit notice of participation in advance will be allowed to make an oral presentation at the conclusion of the hearing. E:\FR\FM\10JAP1.SGM 10JAP1
[Federal Register Volume 79, Number 7 (Friday, January 10, 2014)]
[Pages 1799-1804]
[FR Doc No: 2014-00270]
[EPA-R06-OPPT-2013-0398; FRL-9905-14-Region 6]
Lead-Based Paint Renovation, Repair and Painting, and Pre-
Renovation Education Activities in Target Housing and Child Occupied
Facilities; Oklahoma; Notice of Self-Certification Program
Authorization, and Request for Public Comment on Self-Certification
ACTION: Self-certification program authorization and request for
SUMMARY: This document announces that on March 25, 2013, the State of
Oklahoma was deemed authorized under section 404(a) of the Toxic
Substances Control Act (TSCA), to administer and enforce requirements
for a renovation, repair and painting program (RRP) and a lead-based
paint pre-renovation education program (PRE) in accordance with 406(b)
of TSCA. This document also announces that EPA is seeking comment
during a 45-day public comment period on the State of Oklahoma's self-
certification. This document also announces that the authorization of
the Oklahoma 402(c)(3) and 406(b) programs, which was deemed authorized
by regulation and statute on March 25, 2013, will continue without
further notice unless EPA, based on its own review and/or comments
received during the comment period, disapproves this Oklahoma program
DATES: Comments identified by Docket Control Number EPA-R06-OPPT-2013-
0398, must be received on or before February 24, 2014.
ADDRESSES: Comments may be submitted by mail, electronically, or in
person. Please follow the detailed instructions for each method as
provided in Section I of this notice.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: To ensure proper receipt by EPA, it is
important that you identify Docket Control Number EPA-R06-OPPT-2013-
0398 in
[[Page 1800]]
the subject line on the first page of your response.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Cindy Parker, Toxics Section, Toxics,
Pesticides and Underground Storage Tanks Branch, Multimedia Planning
and Permitting Division, United States Environmental Protection Agency,
1445 Ross Avenue, Ste 1200, Dallas, Texas 75202-2733. The telephone
number where Ms. Parker can be reached is: (214) 665-7291. Ms. Parker
can be contacted via electronic mail at parker.cindy@epa.gov.mailto:
III. State Program Description Summaries
This action is directed to the public in general, to entities
offering Lead Safe Renovation courses, and to firms and individuals
engaged in renovation and remodeling activities of pre-1978 housing and
child-occupied facilities in the State of Oklahoma. Individuals and
firms falling under the North American Industrial Classification System
(NAICS) codes 231118, 238210, 238220, 238320, 531120, 531210, 53131,
e.g., General Building Contractors/Operative Builders, Renovation
Firms, Individual Contractors, and Special Trade Contractors like
Carpenters, Painters, Drywall Workers and Plumbers, ``Home
Improvement'' Contractors, as well as Property Management Firms and
some Landlords are also affected by these rules. This listing is not
intended to be exhaustive, but rather provides a guide for readers
regarding entities likely to be affected by this action. Other types of
entities not listed here could also be affected. The NAICS codes have
been provided to assist you and others in determining whether this
action might apply to certain entities. If you have any questions
regarding the applicability of this action to a particular entity,
consult the technical person listed under FOR FURTHER INFORMATION
B. How can I get additional information, including copies of this
document or other related documents?
1. Electronically: you may obtain electronic copies of this
document, and certain other related documents that might be available
electronically, from the EPA Internet Home Page at http://www.epa.gov/
or from http://www.regulations.gov/. You can also go directly to the
Federal Register listings at http://www.gpoaccess.gov/fr/.
2. In person: you may read this document, and certain other related
documents, by visiting the Oklahoma Department of Environmental
Quality, Central Records, 707 North Robinson Street, Oklahoma City,
Oklahoma 73102. You should arrange your visit to the ODEQ office by
contacting Rhonda Craig, 405-702-0152, or by email at
Rhonda.Craig@deq.ok.gov. You may also read this document, and certain
other related documents, by visiting the United States Environmental
Protection Agency, Region 6 Office, 1445 Ross Avenue, Ste 700, Dallas,
TX 75202. You should arrange your visit to the EPA office by contacting
the technical person listed under FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT.
Also, EPA has established an official record for this action under
Docket Control Number EPA-R06-OPPT-2013-0398. The official record
consists of the documents specifically referenced in this action, this
notice, the State of Oklahoma 402(c)(3) and 406(b) program
authorization applications, documents related to EPA's offer to consult
with any affected Tribes in Oklahoma, any public comments received
during an applicable comment period, and other information related to
You may submit comments through the mail, in person, or
electronically. To ensure proper receipt by EPA, it is important that
you identify Docket Identification Number EPA-R06-OPPT-2013-0398 in the
subject line on the first page of your response.
2. By mail: Submit your comments and hearing requests to: Cindy
Parker, Toxics Section, 6PD-T, United States Environmental Protection
Agency, 1445 Ross Avenue, Ste 1200, Dallas, Texas 75202-2733.
3. By person or courier: Deliver your comments and hearing requests
to: Cindy Parker, Toxics Section, Multimedia Planning and Permitting
Division, United States Environmental Protection Agency, 1445 Ross
Avenue, Ste 700, Dallas, Texas 75202-2733. Such deliveries are only
accepted during the Regional Office's normal hours of operation. The
Regional Office's official hours of business are Monday through Friday,
8:30 to 4:30, excluding federal holidays.
4. By fax: 214-665-6655.
5. By email: You may submit your comments and hearing requests
electronically by email to: parker.cindy@epa.gov, or mail your computer
disk to the address identified above. Do not submit any information
electronically that you consider Confidential Business Information
(CBI). Electronic comments must be submitted as an ASCII file avoiding
the use of special characters and any form of encryption. Comments and
data will also be accepted on standard disks in Microsoft Word or ASCII
Instructions: Direct your comments to Docket ID Number EPA-R06-
OPPT-2013-0398. EPA's policy is that all comments received will be
included in the public docket without change and may be made available
online at http://www.regulations.gov including any personal information
the use of special characters or any form of encryption, and be free of
docket, visit the EPA Docket Center homepage at http://www.epa.gov/epahome/dockets.htm.
Publicly available docket materials are available either
[[Page 1801]]
electronically in http://www.regulations.gov or in hard copy.
D. How should I handle CBI information that I want to submit to the
Do not submit this information to EPA through regulations.gov or
email. Clearly mark on each page the part or all of the information
that you claim to be CBI. For CBI information in a disk or CD-ROM that
you mail to EPA, mark the outside of the disk or CD-ROM that you mail
to EPA as CBI, and then identify electronically within the disk or CD-
ROM the specific information that is claimed as CBI. In addition to one
Information so marked as CBI will not be disclosed except in accordance
with procedures set forth in 40 CFR Part 2. If you have any questions
about CBI or the procedures for claiming CBI, please consult the
technical person identified under FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT.
3. Provide copies of any technical information and/or data you use
arrive at the estimate that you provide.
6. Offer alternative ways to improve the notice or collection
7. Make sure to submit your comments by the deadline in this
8. To ensure proper receipt by EPA, identify the Docket Control
Number assigned to this action in the subject line on the first page of
your response. You may also provide the name, date, and Federal
EPA is announcing that the State of Oklahoma on March 25, 2013, was
deemed authorized under section 404(a) of TSCA, 15 U.S.C. 2684(a) and
40 CFR 745.324(d)(2), to administer and enforce requirements for a
renovation, repair and painting program in accordance with section
402(c)(3) of TSCA, 15 U.S.C. 2682(c)(3), and a lead-based paint pre-
renovation education program in accordance with section 406(b) of TSCA,
15 U.S.C. 2686(b). This notice also announces that EPA is seeking
comment on Oklahoma's self-certification. The 402(c)(3) program ensures
that training providers are accredited to teach renovation classes,
that individuals performing renovation activities are properly trained
and certified as renovators, that firms are certified as renovation
firms, and that specific work practices are followed during renovation
activities. The 406(b) program ensures that owners and occupants of
target housing are provided information concerning potential hazards of
lead-based paint exposure before certain renovations are begun.
On March 25, 2013, Oklahoma submitted an application under section
404 of TSCA requesting authorization to administer and enforce
requirements for a renovation, repair and painting program in
accordance with section 402(c)(3) of TSCA, and a pre-renovation
education program in accordance with section 406(b) of TSCA, and
submitted a self-certification that these programs are at least as
protective as the federal programs and provide for adequate
enforcement. Therefore, pursuant to section 404(a) of TSCA, and 40 CFR
745.324(d)(2), the Oklahoma renovation program and pre-renovation
education program are deemed authorized as of the date of submission
and until such time as the Agency disapproves the program application
or withdraws program authorization. Pursuant to section 404(b) of TSCA
and 40 CFR 745.324(e)(2), EPA is providing notice and an opportunity
for public comment on Oklahoma's self-certification. The authorization
of the Oklahoma 402(c)(3) and 406(b) programs, which were deemed
authorized by EPA on March 25, 2013, will continue without further
notice unless EPA, based on its own review and/or comments received
during the comment period, disapproves one or both of these Oklahoma
program applications. Oklahoma is not authorized to carry out its RRP
or PRE programs in ``Indian Country'', as defined in 18 USC 1151.
Therefore, this action has no effect on Indian country. EPA retains the
authority to implement and administer the RRP and PRE programs on these
In accordance with the EPA policy on Consultation and Coordination
with Indian Tribes, EPA Region 6 has offered government-to-government
consultation to all Tribes within the State of Oklahoma. Any requested
consultations will be conducted in accordance with the policy and
completed by the date of the end of the public comment period February
24, 2014. Tribal consultation will be conducted in accordance with the
EPA policy on Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribes
(www.epa.gov/tribal/consultation/consult-policy.htm).
B. What is EPA's authority for taking this action?
On October 28, 1992, the Housing and Community Development Act of
1992, Public Law 102-550, became law. Title X of that statute was the
Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act of 1992. That Act
amended TSCA (15 U.S.C. 2601 et seq.) by adding Title IV (15 U.S.C.
2681-2692), entitled ``Lead Exposure Reduction.'' On April 22, 2008,
EPA promulgated the final TSCA section 402(c)(3) regulations governing
renovation activities. See 73 FR 21692. These regulations require that
in order to do renovation activities for compensation, renovators must
first be properly trained and certified, must be associated with a
certified renovation firm, and must follow specific work practice
standards, including recordkeeping requirements. In addition, the rule
prescribes requirements for the training and certification of dust
sampling technicians. On June 1, 1998, EPA promulgated the final TSCA
section 406(b) regulations governing pre-renovation education
requirements in target housing. See 63 FR 29908. This program ensures
that owners and occupants of target housing are provided information
concerning potential hazards of lead-based paint exposure before
certain renovations are begun on that housing. In addition to providing
general information on the health hazards associated with exposure to
lead, EPA developed the lead hazard information pamphlet. This pamphlet
advises owners and occupants to take appropriate precautions to avoid
exposure to lead-contaminated dust and debris that are sometimes
generated during renovations. EPA believes that regulation of
renovation activities and the distribution of the pamphlet will help to
reduce the exposures that cause serious lead poisonings, especially in
children under age 6, who are particularly susceptible to the hazards
Under section 404 of TSCA, a state may seek authorization from EPA
to administer and enforce its own pre-renovation education program or
renovation, repair and painting program in lieu of the federal
[[Page 1802]]
regulations governing the authorization of a state program under both
sections 402 and 406 of TSCA are codified at 40 CFR Part 745, subpart
Q. States that choose to apply for program authorization must submit a
complete application to the appropriate regional EPA office for review.
Those applications will be reviewed by EPA within 180 days of receipt
of the complete application. To receive EPA approval, a state must
demonstrate that its program is at least as protective of human health
and the environment as the federal program, and provides for adequate
enforcement, as required by Section 404(b) of TSCA. EPA's regulations
at 40 CFR Part 745, subpart Q, provide the detailed requirements a
state program must meet in order to obtain EPA approval. A state may
choose to certify that its own pre-renovation education program or
renovation, repair and painting program meets the requirements for EPA
approval, by submitting a letter signed by the Governor or Attorney
General stating that the program is at least as protective of human
health and the environment as the federal program and provides for
adequate enforcement. Upon submission of such a certification letter,
the program is deemed authorized pursuant to TSCA section 404(a) and 40
CFR 745.324(d)(2). This authorization becomes ineffective, however, if
EPA disapproves the application or withdraws the program authorization.
A. The following excerpt is from the renovation, repair and
painting program description submitted in Oklahoma's self-certification
The Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) submits this
application with the intent of self-certifying for authorization of the
federal Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) program, along with the
Pre-Renovation Education program. The Department of Environmental
Quality (DEQ) currently administers a comprehensive lead-based paint
(LBP) management program in Oklahoma with the authority of the
``Oklahoma LBP Management Act'' (Act), 27A Okla Stat. (O.S.) Sec.  2-
12-101 et seq. The LBP Management Rules, Okla. Admin. Code (OAC)
252:110-1-1 et seq. (Chapter 110) were adopted to fulfill the mandates
of the Act. The Chapter 110 rules establish mechanisms for
certification of individuals and firms, accreditation of training
providers, and implementation of performance standards for LBP
services. Chapter 110 was updated, and a new Subchapter 15 was added in
2012 to allow the DEQ to seek delegation of the RRP program.
In general, the RRP provisions in 40 CFR Part 745 Subpart E were
incorporated by reference into the Oklahoma Administrative Code. The
items not incorporated by reference are those that are otherwise
mandated by the Act, or that were modified to blend the RRP program
into the existing state program. The differences are minor and all
concern the accreditation of training providers.
The LBP/RRP program is administered by the Air Quality Division of
the DEQ. The point of contact for this program is Randall Ward,
Environmental Programs Manager, who can be reached by mail at Oklahoma
Department of Environmental Quality, Air Quality Division, P.O. Box
1677, 707 N. Robinson, Oklahoma City, OK 73101-1677, by telephone at
(405) 702-4128 or by fax at (405) 702-4101.
Public rulemaking hearings for the adoption of the RRP program were
held in conjunction with approval of the revised Chapter 110 rules, and
the rules were affirmatively approved by the Oklahoma State Legislature
and the Governor on May 1, 2012. Public hearings were noticed in
accordance with the Oklahoma Administrative Procedures Act, and were
held on January 19, 2011; July 20, 2011; and October 5, 2011 before the
Oklahoma Air Quality Council. The rules were approved by the Council on
October 5, 2011, and after another public hearing on February 24, 2012
were approved by Oklahoma Environmental Quality Board.
The Air Quality Division (AQD) has existed (within the Oklahoma
State Department of Health and later within the DEQ) since 1971. The
LBP Program is administered by the AQD and staffed by the Technical
Resources and Projects Section. The various LBP program duties
(enforcement, compliance, inspections, certification, accreditation,
public education) are accomplished through the efforts of three full-
time equivalent employees.
For both LBP activity training and the RRP training, the Oklahoma
LBP Management Rules (Rules) incorporate by reference the federal
accreditation requirements in 40 CFR 745.225, except for those
subsections that address application dates, accreditation deadlines,
accredited training courses, programs that offer only refresher
courses, renewal timelines, and renewal deadlines. In addition to
providing the various dates, timelines and deadlines not incorporated
by reference from the federal rule, the Rules limit accreditation to
educational institutions and government agencies that offer ongoing and
continuous LBP training programs. In addition to the incorporations by
reference, Oklahoma rules provide for provisional accreditation, OAC
252:110-9-5. A stakeholder task force strongly recommended an on-site
evaluation of the training prior to issuing final accreditation in
order to ensure that the training organization operates according to
the information given in the accreditation application. Provisional
accreditation allows the training facility to provide training under
the conditions outlined in OAC 252:110-9-5. EPA rules do not provide
for an on-site evaluation of the training program prior to the issuance
of final accreditation. Therefore, Oklahoma's provisional accreditation
is essentially equivalent to EPA's final accreditation. DEQ further
ensures quality training by requiring an on-site evaluation before
final accreditation is issued.
Refresher courses can be accredited only if the training program
has received accreditation for the initial discipline-specific training
course. Programs that have been accredited by another state or agency
must apply for and receive accreditation from DEQ before conducting or
advertising a training course in Oklahoma. An accredited training
program must notify the DEQ of course offerings, significant changes in
the program, course cancellations, and personnel changes. Annual
renewal is required and is based on documented implementation of
compliance updates as well as satisfactory course and instructor
The Oklahoma RRP program is identical to the federal program except
for the accreditation requirements.
a. Public Information and Outreach
Program information (applications, regulations, statutes, lists of
certified contractors, educational materials, etc.) is mailed to
customers upon request. Increasingly, most of this information can be
obtained through the Internet. The LBP Program pages are contained in
the ``Air Quality'' subset of the DEQ Home Page (http://www.deq.state.ok.us). As program resources allow, and dependent on
public demand, public outreach and education activities are performed.
b. Accreditation of Training Providers
The federal program for accreditation of LBP training providers is
established in 40 CFR 745.225. DEQ incorporated this federal rule by
reference in OAC
[[Page 1803]]
252:110-5-1(2) with the following exceptions.
745.225(a)(2), which refers to application dates,
745.225(a)(3), which refers to accreditation deadlines,
745.225(f)(1), which refers to timelines for renewal of accreditation
of training programs, and
745.225(f)(2), which refers to renewal accreditation deadlines.
27A O.S. 2-12-303(D) establishes an annual renewal year for
accreditations from September 1 through August 31. Likewise,
accreditation timelines are established in OAC 252:110-7-2(c). In
addition to incorporating by reference 745.225(f)(3) and (f)(4), DEQ
provides criteria for re-accreditation of training programs at OAC
252:110-9-7.
745.225(b)(3), which refers to accredited training courses, and
745.225(e)(5), which refers to training programs offering refresher
These federal rules permit a training program to offer refresher
courses only. Per the eligibility requirements established in OAC
252:110-9-1, ``Training programs shall not receive accreditation for a
refresher course if they do not also receive accreditation for the
discipline-specific initial training course.'' This section also limits
accreditation to ``educational institutions and government agencies''.
c. Certification of Individuals and Firms
Under the federal RRP program as incorporated by reference in the
Oklahoma regulations, individuals receive their certification by
completing courses at accredited training providers. RRP firms are
certified by the state using the federal procedure except for the
transition period from EPA to Oklahoma delegation. In that period, EPA
certified firms may transfer their certification to Oklahoma without
payment of fees until the certification expires.
d. Enforcement and Compliance
The Oklahoma RRP program will rely heavily upon DEQ's Complaints
system. Since 1993 the state-wide complaints program has allowed
citizens access to a toll-free hotline and local Environmental Program
Specialists who can provide assistance and information. The complaints
system is also important to the LBP activities programs as it allows
industry competitors access to an anonymous reporting system.
Although the DEQ prefers education and compliance assistance for
small businesses, the LBP/RRP program is fully supported by the DEQ's
enforcement authority. DEQ has the statutory authority to perform
inspections, pursue enforcement actions, and assess penalties.
State law (27A O.S. Sec.  2-3-501) grants the authority for duly
authorized representatives of the DEQ to enter, through consent or
warrant, any private or public property where lead-based paint
activities or training may occur to conduct inspections, take samples,
and review records. Further, the Oklahoma LBP Management Act grants DEQ
the power to enforce the rules, collect samples for enforcement
purposes, and otherwise exercise the incidental powers necessary for
enforcement. See 27A O.S. Sec.  2-12-202(B). DEQ has further addressed
the issue of entrance for inspection purposes in OAC 252:110-7-3(c),
whereby holders of DEQ issued ``authorizations'' (such as
certifications and accreditations) have a duty to allow DEQ
representatives the right to inspect.
All environmental programs administered by DEQ are designed to
focus agency efforts on assisting the regulated community with the
common goal of compliance with environmental regulations. Article III,
Part 5 of the ``Oklahoma Environmental Quality Code,'' (27A O.S. Sec.
2-1-102, et seq.), provides for the general enforcement of the DEQ
rules, permits, and orders and extends to all programs administered by
the DEQ (27A O.S. Sec.  2-3-506(D)). The aforementioned remedies are in
addition to those found in other Oklahoma law, including criminal
statutes contained in Title 21 of the Oklahoma Statutes. The civil
enforcement remedies include:
i. Letters and Notices
Notices of Violation. 27A O.S. Sec.  2-3-502(A).
ii. Penalty Authority
The DEQ may issue Administrative Compliance Orders, which may
include administrative penalties for past violations and stipulated
penalties for violations of Orders, and which may specify compliance
requirements and schedules and/or corrective action (27A O.S. Sec.  2-
3-502(B)). After notice and opportunity for an administrative hearing,
the DEQ may revoke, modify or suspend the holder's license in part or
in whole (27A O.S. Sec.  2-3-502(D)). The DEQ may also seek injunctive
relief to compel compliance with or prevent violation of any section of
the Code or any license or order issued pursuant thereto (27A O.S.
Sec.  2-3-504(A)(4)). Violations may be punished by monetary penalties
assessed in administrative proceedings (27A O.S. Sec.  2-3-502(K)), or
in civil proceedings (27A O.S. Sec.  2-3-504(A)(2)), not to exceed
$10,000.00 per day of noncompliance.
iii. Criminal Authority
The DEQ may request either the Attorney General or the district
attorney of the appropriate district court of Oklahoma to criminally
prosecute anyone who violates the Code, rules promulgated thereunder,
or orders issued, or conditions of permits, licenses, certificates or
other authorizations prescribed pursuant thereto (27A O.S. Sec.  2-3-
504(I)). Such violations are misdemeanors, punishable by a fine of not
less than $200.00 for each violation and not more than $10,000.00 for
each violation and/or by imprisonment in the county jail for not more
than six months (27A O.S. Sec.  2-3-504(A)(1)). In addition, anyone who
knowingly makes a false statement in, or omits material data from, any
application for a permit, license, certificate or other authorization,
or any notice, analyses or report required by the Code, rules
promulgated thereunder, or permit, license, certificate or other
authorization issued pursuant thereto, or who knowingly alters any
sample may be guilty of a misdemeanor and subject to a fine of not more
than $5,000.00 for each such violation (27A O.S. Sec.  2-3-505).
Criminal sanctions may also be imposed pursuant to Oklahoma's Penal
Code. For example, persons who make false statements when advertising a
service can be guilty of a misdemeanor under 21 O.S. Sec.  1502.
Whether a violation will be recommended for criminal prosecution is a
case-by-case decision to be based upon the willfulness and severity of
the violation as well as the effect on human health and the
B. The following summary is an excerpt from Oklahoma's renovation,
repair and painting program self-certification application:
Because the Oklahoma Lead-Based Paint program already included EPA-
approved training provider elements that are considerably more
stringent than the federal program, Oklahoma chose to maintain that
portion of the Lead-Based Paint program for use with the new RRP
program. The differences include: Requirements that only educational
institutions and government agencies may become accredited; providers
must offer on-going programs that include both initial and refresher
[[Page 1804]]
training; and requirements for inspections, annual reviews, and
renewal. Fees for training providers were also modified so that the
annual renewal would not lead to a fee increase over the EPA program.
During the public hearings before the Air Quality Council, concerns
were raised that the DEQ RRP program would cause financial hardship on
renovation firms and training providers that were already approved by
EPA at the time of delegation approval and might have several years
left before they were required to renew under the EPA program. In
response, the proposed rules were amended to include transition
language exempting EPA-approved firms and training providers from fees
until the expiration of their EPA-approval.
The Oklahoma RRP program will utilize the existing accreditation
structure of inspections and close review to ensure a quality training
system. The existing DEQ enforcement system will also apply to the RRP
program, but for the RRP firms and their work practices, much of the
enforcement will come through the DEQ complaint system. The complaint
system uses a toll-free state wide number, strict timelines for
response and investigation, and referral to the various DEQ divisions
for expert follow-up. The DEQ complaint system is well-established and
has proven effective in all programs, including the Oklahoma LBP
activities program. The activities program provides a network of
individuals and firms throughout the state that also self-monitor to
assist in compliance.
Section 404(b) of TSCA makes it unlawful for any person to violate,
or fail or refuse to comply with, any requirement of an approved state
program. Therefore, EPA reserves the right to exercise its enforcement
authority under TSCA against a violation of, or a failure or refusal to
comply with, any requirement of an authorized state program.
Pursuant to section 404(c) of TSCA, the EPA Administrator may
withdraw authorization of a State or Indian tribal renovation, repair
and painting program, and/or a lead-based paint pre-renovation
education program, after notice and opportunity for corrective action,
if the program is not being administered or enforced in compliance with
standards, regulations, and other requirements established under the
authorization. The procedures U.S. EPA will follow for the withdrawal
of an authorization are found at 40 CFR 745.324(I).
List of Subjects in 40 CFR 745
Environmental protection, Hazardous substances, Lead poisoning,
[FR Doc. 2014-00270 Filed 1-9-14; 8:45 am]