The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a decision on Jan. 13 requiring Oklahoma to coordinate with Tribes when administering federal environmental programs, EPA announced.
The decision mandates Tribal involvement in air and water pollution, hazardous waste and drinking water regulations. It modifies a 2020 order allowing Oklahoma to oversee these programs on tribal lands—a move opposed by Tribes, including the Pawnee Nation, which challenged it in court.
Stemming from the 2020 McGirt v. Oklahoma ruling, EPA’s decision ensures Oklahoma consults with 11 Tribes on permitting and enforcement, aligning with federal consultation practices for tribal lands.
