Background Information on
Brownfields and Title VI

Under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, citizens can file complaints with EPA alleging discriminatory effects resulting from the issuance of pollution control permits by state and local government agencies that receive EPA funding. In February 1998, EPA issued an interim guidance to inform the public of EPA's current approach for processing Title VI complaints and to provide an opportunity for public comment. On June 20, 1998, the U.S. Conference of Mayors passed a resolution which raises concerns that EPA's interim guidance is at odds with efforts to cleanup and redevelop urban brownfields and calls for its immediate suspension. EPA strongly believes that there is no inherent contradiction between Title VI and good, community-centered brownfields cleanup and redevelopment. The following letter from EPA Administrator Carol Browner to the U.S. Conference of Mayors articulates EPA's position that economic development can continue to thrive without violating the rights of any citizens to a safe and healthy environment. The letter proposes a plan for how EPA can work with the U.S. Conference of Mayors and other stakeholders to find a constructive path to this end without sacrificing either the environment or economic opportunity.

Continue to check EPA's Brownfields Homepage for the latest information on Title VI and Brownfields.