Ombudsman Reauthorization Act of 2002

This bill, introduced during the 107th Congress, would strengthen and expand the role of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Ombudsman to better help citizens resolve issues with federal waste management and cleanup programs. It would empower the Ombudsman to investigate public complaints, conduct fact-finding missions, and recommend solutions for problems related to hazardous waste and "Superfund" cleanup sites.

For everyday citizens, the bill would provide a more accessible and independent way to address health and environmental concerns by requiring a Deputy Ombudsman in every EPA region. Additionally, it would establish legal protections for employees who report issues and create criminal penalties for anyone who provides false information or obstructs the Ombudsman’s investigations.