All of these were changes to CERCLA under SARA, except for ______________.

• A. Discouraged greater citizen participation
• B. Expanded enforcement authorities
• C. Increased funding for cleanup
• D. Expanded public participation

Answer: (A)

Under SARA, CERCLA was strengthened to move cleanup faster and involve the public more in the process. The amendments expanded the federal enforcement toolkit, provided more funds for remediation, and, crucially, broadened public participation in decision-making about cleanup actions. The claim that it discouraged greater citizen participation isn’t accurate because SARA created formal channels for community involvement—public notice and comment periods, requirements for community involvement plans, and Community Advisory Groups—so residents and stakeholders could have a real voice in remedies and prioritization. The other changes—expanded enforcement authorities and increased funding for cleanup—did occur, and expanded public participation likewise occurred, making the statement about discouraging participation the one that doesn’t fit.