The Clean Water Justice Act increases criminal penalties for violations of federal water pollution laws. Specifically, it raises the maximum fines that can be imposed for breaking the Clean Water Act from $5,000, $50,000, and $100,000 to $25,000, $250,000, and $500,000 respectively, depending on the type and severity of violation. The bill also requires the Environmental Protection Agency to adjust these penalty amounts annually based on inflation, ensuring that fines keep pace with rising costs. The legislation applies to companies, individuals, and entities that illegally pollute waterways or violate Clean Water Act requirements. By increasing enforcement penalties, the bill aims to deter water pollution violations and ensure that environmental crimes carry more serious financial consequences.
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