What does SARA stand for in relation to environmental legislation?

SARA stands for the Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act. This act was enacted in 1986 as an amendment to the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA), commonly known as the Superfund law. The primary purpose of SARA is to amend and update the Superfund program, which addresses the cleanup of hazardous waste sites.

One significant aspect of SARA is its focus on strengthening the role of state and local governments in the cleanup process while enhancing community involvement. It also emphasizes the need for greater emphasis on human health and the environment in the cleanup efforts. By establishing a framework for the management of hazardous waste sites and improving funding mechanisms, SARA plays a critical role in protecting environmental health and safety.

Understanding SARA is essential for anyone studying environmental legislation, as it demonstrates how laws can evolve to better address public health and environmental issues stemming from hazardous waste management.