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of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

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    Complying with air quality regulations can be burdensome, especially for small businesses. Recognizing this, DEP created the Small Business Assistance Program. This program assists small businesses with air quality regulatory compliance, provides information about cost saving pollution prevention practices, and ensures that small business are considered when new regulations are developed.

    EMAP

    In partnership with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, the Pennsylvania Environmental Management Assistance Program (EMAP) is providing free and confidential environmental assistance services to small businesses. EMAP can be contacted at 877-ASK EMAP (877-275-3627) or visit their website.

    Small Business Compliance Advisory Committee

    The Small Business Compliance Advisory Committee consists of small business owners, small business advocacy organizations, and representatives of government agencies. The Committee’s role is to ensure small business concerns and interests are represented within DEP when new regulations are proposed.

    The Small Business Compliance Advisory Committee web site offers the following information on the committee:

    • Schedule of meetings.
    • Minutes of previous meetings.
    • Agendas and handouts.
    • Membership list.

    Small Business Ombudsman

    The Small Business Ombudsman provides free confidential environmental assistance to businesses with 100 or fewer full-time employees. By law, the Ombudsman cannot reveal the identity of any small business that contacts the Office without their permission. All contacts are kept strictly confidential. The following are some of the services that the Ombudsman provides:

    • Small Business Advantage Grant Program
    • Small Business Pollution Prevention Assistance Account (PPAA) Loan Program
    • Serves as the primary advocate for small business within the DEP.
    • Assists small businesses in realizing potential cost savings of pollution prevention versus pollution control.
    • Serves as the DEP spokesperson to the small business community.
    • Reviews pending regulations and ensures that the impact on small businesses is considered.
    • Investigates complaints from small businesses about DEP
    • Provides confidential assistance to small businesses within the Commonwealth needing help with environmental issues.

    Helpful Information

    For more information on the Small Business Assistance Program call 717-787-9702 or email ra-epsbcac@pa.gov.