The Superfund Amendment and Reauthorization Act of 1986 (SARA) has substantially increased the role of the public in an important environmental program.

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In accordance with SARA, each county in South Carolina was directed to establish a Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC), composed of certain elements of both government and private industry, as well as the media and local environmental organizations. SARA's implementation creates a significant opportunity for citizens and a major challenge to government and industry.

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The mission of the Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) is to protect the community from harmful and possibly life-threatening effects of a hazardous materials release by developing and implementing policies and procedures for complying with the Emergency Planning and Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA). Title III of the Superfund and Reauthorization Act of 1986 (SARA Title III).

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This mission is accomplished by:

1. Identifying business facilities in Anderson County, SC that manufacture, process or store hazardous chemicals and to assist these facilities in preparing emergency response plans;

2. Informing and educating the public about chemical facilities in the community and actions that can be taken in the event of an accidental chemical spill or release into the environment, and;

3. Working to assist governmental and emergency response agencies in being well prepared to respond to and handle any and all emergencies associated with chemical spills or releases that may occur in Anderson County.

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Revenue from fees collected in the reporting process are used for mitigation, prevention and response equipment/activities by the LEPC in Anderson County and are also used to support the Anderson County HazMat team.