The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is the enforcement branch of the federal government concerning the preservation of the country’s water, air, and soil. A collection of federal laws, rules, and regulations determine how companies may act when doing business regarding their local environment. Violations of EPA rules are significant matters and may result in severe consequences.
However, many companies would get away with their illegal activity if not for the actions of whistleblowers. Whistleblowers can contact the EPA directly with information about violations of federal laws. If this information leads to a conviction that recovers funds, whistleblowers may even be able to collect a reward. A South Carolina environmental regulations whistleblower lawyer could help you come forward to protect the environment and pursue fair compensation for your efforts.
Understandably, a person may be hesitant to come forward as a whistleblower. After all, many of the entities performing illegal activities are the informant’s employers. Thankfully, it is unlawful for any person or company to retaliate in any way against a whistleblower or any person who cooperates in a government investigation.
When an individual believes that they have fallen victim to these schemes, they can demand compensation in court. This can include reinstatement at their job, the receipt of back pay, and other remedies. A South Carolina environmental regulations whistleblower attorney could help to evaluate a person’s experiences after coming forward to determine if they qualify as retaliation.
In addition, an attorney could help whistleblowers to pursue a reward. Each of the federal agencies looking for whistleblowers offers ways to request rewards through the writs of Qui Tam. These rewards range in value from ten to thirty percent of the total value of the case that results in a conviction. As a result, these potential rewards can serve as a motivating factor to blow the whistle in the face of possible retaliation.
A collection of federal laws attempts to preserve the environment. These include the Clean Air Act, the Clean Water Act, and the Toxic Substances Control Act. All companies doing business in the United States must be aware of their obligations under this package of laws. Failures to follow them could lead to severe consequences.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is the enforcement body of these laws. It has the power to perform investigations into apparent violations as well as issue penalties to companies in opposition to the law.
An individual who believes that they have information about violations of environmental laws should come forward. Submitting complaints to the EPA could be the impetus for a full investigation that not only puts an end to polluting activities but also leads to a substantial reward. A skilled attorney in South Carolina could provide more information about federal environmental laws and the role that whistleblowers play in helping the EPA do its job.
Even ordinary citizens can play a role in protecting the environment. If you have information about how a company has violated environmental protection regulations, you can serve as a whistleblower with the EPA. Not only could this end the illegal activity, but you may also be able to collect a reward for your information.
A South Carolina environmental regulations whistleblower lawyer could help you if you are thinking about coming forward. They can gather more information about your complaint and submit it in the correct format to the EPA. This includes demanding a reward through a writ of Qui Tam. They are also ready to protect you against any potential retaliation and fight to protect your rights if retaliation still occurs. At the Law Office of Bill Nettles, our team is highly trained in this area of law. Contact us today to work with some of the most experienced whistleblower attorneys in the state.