Strangers in Their Own Land: Anger and Mourning on the American Right

by Arlie Russell Hochschild

Overall, just how well did Louisiana state officials do in protecting its citizens? An eye-opening 2003 report from the inspector general of the EPA offered an answer. Charged with evaluating implementation of federal policies by each state within the nation’s six regions, the report ranked Louisiana lowest of all in Region 6. Companies had not been required to submit reports. Louisiana’s database on hazardous waste facilities was filled with errors. The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality (a title missing the word “protection”) did not know if many companies were or were not “in compliance.” Delays allowed sixteen facilities to discharge material into Louisiana waters without permits. The agency had failed to inspect many plants. Even when it found companies out of compliance, it had neglected to levy penalties or, if they were levied, to collect them. The inspector general concluded that he was “unable to fully assure the public that Louisiana was operating programs in a way that effectively protects human health and the environment.”