Gov. Eric Holcomb appointed a top employee of the state’s environmental oversight office to serve as its new leader.
Brian Rockensuess was appointed commissioner of the Indiana Department of Environmental Management in December 2013.
Rockensuess served as IDEM’s chief of staff for the past five years. He managed daily operations, governmental affairs and set rulemaking priorities. He was previously the IDEM’s liaison with the Indiana General Assembly.
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Holcomb, a Republican, stated that “I have no doubt Brian will build upon what IDEM is already doing,” Holcomb said. “His dedication and commitment to the agency will benefit all Hoosiers.”
Rockensuess stated that his goal as IDEM Commissioner is to “continue making great strides in environment protection throughout the state and improve efficiency within the agency.”
“I want Gov. Rockensuess thanked Holcomb for the chance to continue leading the IDEM team to find creative solutions for challenges and opportunities that provide the best outcomes for all Hoosiers.”
Rockensuess obtained his bachelor’s from Ball State University and his master’s in public administration degree from Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis.
He succeeds Bruno Pigott, the former IDEM Commissioner who resigned Dec. 3, to become deputy assistant administrator at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency office of water.
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The Indiana law gives the IDEM the responsibility of implementing state and federal regulations to protect the environment and human health.
IDEM staffers inspect regulated entities and provide technical assistance and compliance. They also monitor and assess air, soil, and water quality and use enforcement actions to enforce compliance. They also respond to spillages affecting the soils and waters of the state.