Congressman George Whitesides Statement on CalEPA Action Against Chiquita Canyon Landfill

CASTAIC, CA – Today, Rep. George Whitesides released the following statement in response to CalEPA announcing that they are taking action against Chiquita Canyon Landfill: “The residents surrounding the Chiquita Canyon Landfill need immediate help, and CalEPA’s announcement is an important step forward. The landfill has repeatedly failed to take full accountability for the harm they have caused.  The order makes it clear that their actions have created an imminent and substantial danger of a release of toxins that could harm public health and the environment. I support CalEPA in taking immediate action to protect our residents, and will continue to push for additional relief for affected families at the federal level.” In February, Rep. Whitesides introduced his first standalone bill, the Chiquita Canyon Tax Relief Act , to ensure anyone receiving relief payments from the Chiquita Canyon Landfill is not taxed on that assistance. Later that month, the Congressman visited Castaic and Val Verde to speak directly with affected families in the area. In March, Rep. Whitesides called on the EPA to expand and expedite the scope of their investigation into the landfill, given the substantial potential risks to public health and safety. ###