News Release

Meredith Williams, Director

Contact: Barbara Zumwalt
(916) 708-4303
Barbara.Zumwalt@dtsc.ca.gov

DTSC Statement on its Agreement to the Exide Vernon Environmental Response Trust

DTSC today released the following statement regarding its agreement to the creation of an Exide Vernon Environmental Response Trust:

“On Thursday October 22, 2020, DTSC agreed to the creation of an Exide Vernon Environmental Response Trust to continue cleanup of the former Exide lead-acid battery recycling facility. Establishment of a Trust avoids the many legal challenges posed by abandonment, and ensures an orderly transition of ownership and responsibility for maintenance and site cleanup – all with DTSC’s close supervision and oversight. 

“We continue to object to Exide’s shirking its responsibility, but we took this step to protect the people who live and work near the facility.  

“Earlier on Thursday, the District Court denied California’s motion to stay Chief U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Christopher S. Sontchi’s ruling. DTSC is disappointed in this outcome and will continue to pursue its appeal of that ruling and to fight to hold Exide accountable.   

“In the meantime, DTSC will work with the trustee to protect the public and ensure that the Vernon Property is secured after Exide transfers the site to the trustee and walks away from the site.”

 

More information can be found at www.dtsc.ca.gov/exide-bankruptcy.

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FOR GENERAL INQUIRIES: Contact the Department of Toxic Substances Control to report illegal handling, discharge, or disposal of hazardous waste or other environmental concerns at Calepa.my.salesforce-sites.com/complaints/Complaint.