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RESERVE, La. (WVUE) - Governor Jeff Landry announced on Monday (July 1) that Denka Elastomer has been granted a two-year extension to comply with new federal EPA rules aimed at reducing emissions.

The announcement comes after the EPA implemented a 90-day compliance rule specifically targeting neoprene plants. Denka is the only such plant in the United States.

Landry, alongside Attorney General Liz Murrill, Department of Environmental Quality secretary Roger Giacommetto and state Senator Greg Miller (R-Destrehan), met with Denka employees to discuss the extension.

Louisiana has also filed a petition in federal court in Washington D.C., challenging the EPA’s ruling. Murrill says the state is requesting a review of the EPA’s decision, which they argue strips Louisiana of its authority to grant compliance extensions.

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Denka has faced criticism from environmental groups for its contribution to elevated cancer rates in “Cancer Alley.” The EPA’s lawsuit against Denka last year highlighted the plant’s “imminent and substantial” danger to the community. The new EPA regulations aim to significantly reduce cancer risks.

US Congressman Troy Carter (D-New Orleans) issued a statement Monday night in support of the new EPA emissions rule.

“Louisianians deserve to breathe clean air and drink clean water without fear for their health,” Carter said. “My district has the highest cancer risk of any place in the United States – that is unacceptable.

“We must pursue proper regulations. We must listen to the people who are impacted at home, who undoubtedly have suffered the cost of being near petrochemical plants — but not just chemical plants, chemical plants that don’t follow the rules. I am not anti-industry, I am anti-violator. When people and communities come first, we can achieve coexistence.”

Denka has warned that the EPA’s ruling could potentially lead to the plant’s closure, impacting its 250 employees.

Robert Taylor, executive director of Concerned Citizens of St. John the Baptist Parish, decried the new extension.

“Over the last eight years, Louisiana and LDEQ have extended permission after permission for the Denka chemical plant to harm our community,” Taylor said in a statement. “They would rather believe Denka’s science over the EPA’s and expose us to toxic emissions. Governor Landry has no respect for our people or the federal government. They think they’re above the law and it is outrageous. It’s time for the madness to end.”

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