Attorney Steve Hoch Published in American Water Works Association Journal and Los Angeles Daily Journal

Attorney Steve Hoch’s article “Application of the Clean Water Act to Groundwater Is Anathema to the Water Industry: An Unfolding Tale,” was published on October 4 in the American Water Works Association’s JournalAWWA, and an article on the same topic was also featured in the Los Angeles Daily Journal. Hoch explained how the amendments to the Clean Water Act (CWA) have changed the definition of “waters of the United States” over time. Because various Circuit Courts have differed on whether the CWA regulates groundwater discharges, the Supreme Court’s decision on whether the CWA regulates groundwater could cause water projects to become too costly, too burdensome, and subject to delays. For the full article, click here. (Subscription may be required.)

Hoch has over 40 years of experience with both federal and state environmental laws and regulations in the context of permitting, regulatory proceedings, litigation, enforcement actions, water supply, public policy formation, and advice. His work includes contamination of land and ground and surface water. Hoch has in-depth experience working with numerous public water systems throughout the state and has also established a sterling reputation for his work with the Regional Water Quality Control Boards, the Department of Toxic Substance Control, and the United States Environmental Protection Agency both in the administrative and litigation. His clients range from the country’s largest municipal water agency to individuals selling or buying contaminated sites. Hoch has critical experience in the areas of environmental law and the federal and state Safe Drinking Water Acts, Title 23, water supply, and the mechanics of water distribution. His experience also extends to groundwater modelling and water quality testing. He also has significant experience in hazardous substances and waste handling practices, remediation, soil erosion, and claims of toxic exposures.