What regulatory agency is responsible for environmental protection regarding USTs in Pennsylvania?

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is the regulatory agency responsible for overseeing environmental protection concerning underground storage tanks (USTs) in Pennsylvania. This agency implements state legislation and regulations that govern the management and operation of USTs, focusing on preventing environmental contamination and ensuring that proper handling, installation, maintenance, and removal procedures are followed.

The DEP's role includes enforcing compliance with both state and federal laws, conducting inspections, overseeing remediation efforts in case of leaks, and ensuring that UST facilities adhere to established safety and environmental standards. Their involvement is crucial in protecting Pennsylvania’s land and water resources from pollution associated with USTs.

Other agencies mentioned play different roles; for example, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides federal guidelines and oversight but operates at a broader national level. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) primarily deals with consumer protection and antitrust issues, and the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation focuses on transportation-related matters. Therefore, the specific focus and authority of the DEP in Pennsylvania make it the correct answer for regulating USTs.