It is the intent of the general assembly that the environmental protection agency shall:
(A) Promulgate and put into execution a long term comprehensive plan and program to conserve, protect, and enhance the air, water, and other natural resources of the state;
(B) Prevent and abate pollution of the environment for the protection and preservation of the health, safety, welfare, and property of the people of the state,
(C) Administer the air, water, and other natural resources of the state for the use and benefit of the people of the state;
(D) Promote the development of technology for environmental protection and management;
(E) Operate the state government in ways designed to minimize environmental damage, and assist and cooperate with governmental agencies to restore, protect, and enhance the quality of the environment;
(F) Provide for enforcement of the right of the people to environmental quality consistent with human health and welfare.
The director of environmental protection may designate one of his staff to serve directly under the director as an ombudsman and expeditor between the citizens and the environmental protection agency in all matters of the environment.
Effective Date: 10-23-1972.