Polluter Accountability Act

H.R. 4572, the Polluter Accountability Act, proposes to significantly increase criminal penalties for individuals and companies that violate federal water protection laws. The bill targets illegal actions such as discharging oil or hazardous substances into waterways, mishandling sewage sludge, and dumping pollutants into public sewer systems that could cause personal injury or property damage. By strengthening the consequences for both negligent and intentional violations of the Clean Water Act and the Refuse Act of 1899, the legislation aims to provide a stronger legal deterrent against the contamination of the nation's navigable waters and public infrastructure.