Comment submitted by Lauren Coon

My understanding of proposed rule EPA-HQ-OLEM-2019-0361 is that the plan uses one-size-fits-all general permits in regard to the handling of coal ash in Indiana and that the plan does not require regular review of each permit. Using a general permit system does not take into consideration the nuances of each site. For example, sites near a body of water, a neighborhood or a farm would fall under the same consideration as sites in remote areas of our state. These sites hold chemicals that are harmful to water quality along with human and animal life. Treating each site the same cannot result in the best outcome for Hoosiers. The town of Pines, Indiana, has already suffered coal ash contamination and was declared a Superfund site in 2001. Additional places in Indiana are also on the list of sites that are known to have contaminated private wells and contaminated bodies of water. (https://earthjustice.org/feature/coal-ash-contaminated-sites-map) With the quality of Indiana's water and the health of every living creature in our state on the line, I support the careful review of each CCR site individually to ensure the highest level of protections. I also support requiring regular review of each permit to ensure safety measures remain in place. There are proven, safe ways to handle this waste. How we manage coal, and what we do with the waste it leaves behind, is a choice we get to make.