H.R. 6616: Clean Water Justice Act
This bill, known as the Clean Water Justice Act, aims to amend the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to increase penalties for criminal violations related to water pollution. Here are the key points of the legislation:
Increased Criminal Penalties
The bill proposes to significantly raise the fines for various criminal offenses under the Federal Water Pollution Control Act. Specifically, it makes the following changes:
- Increases the maximum penalty for certain offenses from $5,000 to $25,000.
- Increases the maximum penalty from $50,000 to $250,000.
- Increases the maximum penalty from $100,000 to $500,000.
Adjustment of Penalties
Additionally, the bill mandates that the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) adjust these maximum penalties annually based on changes in the Consumer Price Index. This adjustment is intended to ensure that penalty amounts remain relevant and effective over time. The adjustments will be published in the Federal Register and will apply to violations committed after the publication date.
Legislative Process
The Clean Water Justice Act was introduced in the House of Representatives and has been referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, as well as the Committee on the Judiciary for review. The specifics regarding the committee's further consideration of the bill will be determined by the Speaker of the House.
Overall Purpose
The primary goal of the Clean Water Justice Act is to strengthen the enforcement of environmental laws related to water quality by increasing the financial repercussions for those who violate these laws. This is intended to enhance accountability among entities that pollute water resources.
Relevant Companies
- DOW - The company, involved in manufacturing and agriculture, may face higher penalties if found in violation of environmental regulations concerning water pollution.
- MO - As an organization involved in the agricultural sector, it could be significantly impacted if their operations lead to water pollution issues and attract heightened fines.
This is an AI-generated summary of the bill text. There may be mistakes.
Sponsors
1 sponsor
Actions
3 actions
| Date | Action |
|---|---|
| Feb. 02, 2026 | Referred to the Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment. |
| Dec. 11, 2025 | Introduced in House |
| Dec. 11, 2025 | Referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, and in addition to the Committee on the Judiciary, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned. |
Corporate Lobbying
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