The Justice Department has announced the dismissal of a federal lawsuit against a Louisiana petrochemical plant that was accused of worsening cancer risks for residents in a majority-Black community. This decision is seen as a move to dismantle radical Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion programs and restore integrity to federal enforcement efforts under President Donald Trump. The Environmental Protection Agency also withdrew the formal referral of the case. The dismissal of the case targeting the Denka Performance Elastomer plant was a reversal of former President Joe Biden’s environmental justice effort. The plant, located near an elementary school in LaPlace, Louisiana, produces neoprene and was accused of emitting unacceptable levels of cancer-causing chloroprene. The Justice Department stated the dismissal reflects a renewed commitment to enforcing environmental laws fairly and without regard to race. Denka welcomed the decision, saying the lawsuit lacked scientific and legal merit and was a draining attack on their business. The plant has reduced its emissions in recent years, and the company argued that it was being singled out unfairly.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
