What significant legislation amended the CERCLA?

The significant legislation that amended the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) is SARA, the Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act. Enacted in 1986, SARA aimed to strengthen the original CERCLA framework by enhancing the federal government's ability to respond to hazardous substance releases and increasing the emphasis on the importance of involving state and local governments in the cleanup process.

SARA introduced several key provisions, including new enforcement authorities and a focus on greater public involvement and access to information regarding hazardous waste sites. It also established the "Community Right-to-Know" provisions, which require reporting on toxic chemicals and facilitate community awareness around potential environmental hazards.

This legislation played a vital role in refining and expanding CERCLA’s approach to environmental cleanup, demonstrating the ongoing evolution of environmental law to address emerging issues and improve public health and safety.