Holding Businesses Accountable: Wisconsin's Crackdown on Environmental Violations

In a move to uphold environmental regulations and protect the state's natural resources, the Wisconsin Department of Justice has secured a series of settlements with businesses that have violated various environmental laws. The Joint Committee on Finance has unanimously approved these settlements, which collectively amount to over 0,000 in penalties. This article delves into the details of these cases, highlighting the state's commitment to ensuring businesses operate in an environmentally responsible manner.

Safeguarding Wisconsin's Environment, One Settlement at a Time

Whey Protein Producer Faces Hefty Fines for Wastewater Violations

The largest settlement approved by the committee involves Wisconsin Whey Protein, Inc., a company based in Darlington that operates a whey and cheese-making facility, as well as a wastewater treatment plant. The Department of Justice alleged that the company violated the terms of its wastewater discharge permit by exceeding the set limits. Additionally, the state claimed that Wisconsin Whey Protein failed to properly obtain a stormwater permit, thereby violating stormwater laws. As a result, the company will pay a total of 0,000 in fines and attorney fees, a significant penalty that underscores the state's commitment to enforcing environmental regulations.

Liquid Smoke Manufacturer Penalized for Air Permit Violations

Another settlement approved by the committee involves Kerry, Inc., a liquid smoke and manufacturing facility located in Beloit. The Department of Justice alleged that the company violated the terms of its air permit, leading to a ,000 penalty. This case highlights the state's efforts to ensure businesses comply with air quality regulations, which are crucial for maintaining a healthy environment for Wisconsin residents.

Metal Finishing Company Faces Consequences for Hazardous Waste Mishandling

The committee also approved a settlement with Pioneer Metal Finishing, an Ashwaubenon-based company that removes defects from metal surfaces. The Department of Justice claimed that the company failed to properly store, label, and track hazardous waste at its facilities in Brown and Winnebago counties. As a result, Pioneer Metal Finishing will pay a ,000 penalty, demonstrating the state's intolerance for improper hazardous waste management practices.

Abandoned Underground Storage Tanks Prompt Penalty for Milwaukee Company

The committee's approvals also included a settlement with B2D2, LLC, a Milwaukee-based company that owns an abandoned underground storage tank. The state alleged that the company violated laws regarding petroleum underground storage tanks, leading to a ,000 penalty. This case underscores the importance of properly maintaining and decommissioning such infrastructure to prevent environmental contamination.

Timeshare Fraud Scheme Leads to Fines and Restitution

The final settlement approved by the committee involves Clyde Masten of No More Timeshare Fees, LLC, a company based in Portage. The state alleged that Masten was involved in a fraudulent scheme that misled consumers about their timeshare obligations, leading to damage to their credit ratings. As a result, Masten will pay ,000 in fines and attorney fees, as well as ,000 in restitution to affected customers. This case demonstrates the state's commitment to protecting consumers from deceptive practices that can have far-reaching financial consequences.These settlements underscore the Wisconsin Department of Justice's proactive approach to enforcing environmental regulations and holding businesses accountable for their actions. By securing these agreements, the state has sent a clear message that it will not tolerate violations that jeopardize the state's natural resources or harm its residents. As the state continues to prioritize environmental protection, these cases serve as a reminder to businesses that they must operate in a responsible and sustainable manner to maintain the integrity of Wisconsin's ecosystems.