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ARTICLE · 26 FEBRUARY 2026

A Panel Of Former EPA Attorneys: Insights On EPA Priorities & Recent Actions

Baker Botts L.L.P.
Baker Botts L.L.P.
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Baker Botts L.L.P.

Baker Botts L.L.P.

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During Baker Botts' 39th Annual Environmental, Safety & Incident Response Seminar on January 28, 2026, Partner Julie Cress moderated a panel covering "Insights on EPA Priorities & Recent Actions"...

United StatesEnvironment
Julie Cress
Julie Cress
Matthew Morrison
Matthew Morrison
Mark Talty
Mark Talty
Matthew Trawick
Matthew Trawick

During Baker Botts'  39th Annual Environmental, Safety & Incident Response Seminar  on January 28, 2026, Partner Julie Cress moderated a panel covering "Insights on EPA Priorities & Recent Actions" with former EPA attorneys and fellow Baker Botts lawyers Matt Morrison, Mark Talty and Matt Trawick.

Key Takeaways

  1. EPA cases are built in the regions, but DOJ controls what moves forward. Most civil enforcement matters originate with EPA regional offices, then must pass through headquarters and DOJ review before filing in court. DOJ is placing heavy emphasis on evidentiary sufficiency, statutory risk, and practical impact, and is sending underdeveloped cases back for more work. The result is a narrower pipeline, longer timelines, and more selective litigation. 

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