What is the primary focus of the Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA)?

The Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA) is designed primarily to inform the public about chemical hazards present in their communities. This act empowers citizens by ensuring they have access to information about the type and quantity of hazardous chemicals that local facilities handle, store, or release into the environment. The underlying intent is to promote transparency and safety, allowing community members to make informed decisions and take appropriate actions in response to potential chemical hazards.

By emphasizing the community's right to know, the act encourages local governments and businesses to communicate openly about chemical safety and emergency preparedness. While the act also supports emergency responders and has implications for industry safety practices, the central aim remains focused on public awareness of chemical risks, fostering a culture of safety and preparedness at the community level.