This is the way that states are working to collect reimbursement for site clean-ups. The original CERCLA, AKA Superfund was funded by taxes. When the EPA found contaminated sites that were potentially dangerous to the surrounding community, they cleaned the site up to standards that lessened the short-term hazards. Anybody who has worked with the federal government knows that when you involve a federal entity, the clean-up costs will nearly double. The government would foot the bill and then attempt to collect from Responsible Parties (RP's).

In 1995. (yes, while Clinton was in office) Superfund was not reauthorized and the pot of money dropped to the lowest level it has ever been. I think that going after bankrupt companies assets is a good step. I also think that having known polluters start funds and begin clean-up on a voluntary basis is a better idea. Most remediation that I am involved in is voluntary site clean-up by the RP's which leaves the state and federal EPA out of the financial picture.