ABSTRACT
This chapter provides a review of the government's action, particularly the steps taken by the Environmental Protection Agency. In 1976, when the Love Canal situation was first brought to the attention of the Federal Government, it was determined that the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation had sufficient legislative authority to handle situation. Despite the preliminary nature of epidemiological studies, evaluation of available information led the Commissioner of the New York Department of Health, under authorities contained in Public Health Law, Section 1388, to declare on August 2, 1978 the existence of a health emergency at Love Canal. Love Canal is a vivid example of the extremely serious environmental problems that exist because of improper disposal of hazardous wastes. If Love Canal is any guide, many hazardous waste situations heighten public concern, and in some cases, provoke extreme anxiety. Government has responsibility to inform the public adequately and to involve the public in the process of monitoring and cleanup.
