Which agency has jurisdiction over the coastal zone during a hazardous materials incident?

The correct agency that has jurisdiction over the coastal zone during a hazardous materials incident is the United States Coast Guard (USCG). The USCG is primarily responsible for maritime safety, security, and environmental protection along the coast and in navigable waters. In the event of a hazardous materials incident, particularly those that occur in or near the ocean or coastal areas, the USCG plays a critical role in coordinating response efforts to mitigate the impact on marine environments and ensure public safety.

Their jurisdiction enables them to oversee operations and enforce regulations related to the transportation and containment of hazardous materials in maritime domains. This includes overseeing spill response operations and enforcing compliance with federal regulations aimed at protecting marine ecosystems.

Other agencies, while they may play important roles in hazardous materials incidents, do not have the same level of jurisdiction specifically over coastal zones in these scenarios. For instance, while the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is involved in environmental protection and hazardous material management, its focus is more on land-based incidents and broader environmental policy rather than maritime enforcement. The Department of Defense (DOD) deals with military operations and can be involved in hazardous materials incidents, but only as they pertain to military installations and not specifically in coastal regulatory capacity. The Office of Spill Prevention and Response (OS