Environmental Laws

Environmental laws are the statutes that protect air, water, land, wildlife, and public health. Congress writes them, federal agencies such as the EPA carry them out, states often run their own versions, and courts settle disputes over what they mean. The Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, and Endangered Species Act are well-known examples.

Readers usually ask which laws cover a given problem and which agency is responsible. They want to know how federal and state rules fit together, how a law becomes specific rules, and how the public can take part. They also ask how supporters and critics see the balance between protection and economic cost.