FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 8, 2009

Contact:  860-524-7313

Governor Rell Nominates Acting DEP Commissioner Marrella for Permanent Role as Agency Head

            Governor M. Jodi Rell today announced she has nominated Acting Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Amey W. Marrella to serve as permanent DEP Commissioner.

            “Amey has a wealth of experience at the local, state and federal level and has been an important leader in making the DEP a stronger and more effective, ‘customer-friendly’ agency,” Governor Rell said. “Since June, she has served ably in the role of Acting Commissioner and is well-respected in the legal and environmental communities. I am delighted that she has agreed to take this role on a permanent basis.

            “The DEP is one of the most active and important agencies in state government, with responsibilities ranging from safeguarding our precious natural resources to maintaining and improving Connecticut’s wonderful state parks,” the Governor said. “I know that these vital interests will be in good hands with Amey as Commissioner and I look forward to her confirmation by the General Assembly.”

            A 1981 graduate of Williams College, Marrella obtained her law degree cum laude from the Harvard University School of Law. She and her husband, John, live in Woodbridge.

            Governor Rell appointed Marrella Deputy Commissioner for Environmental Quality in April 2006 to direct air, waste and water pollution programs. She has worked to enhance the DEP’s ability to enforce environmental laws and regulations and improve the process for reviewing and acting on permit applications. She has also worked to improve services for municipal officials, who are major constituents of the agency.

            Marrella serves on a variety of state and interstate boards on behalf of DEP, including the Transportation Strategy Board (TSB) and the Interstate Ozone Transport Commission. Prior to joining DEP, Marrella served for five years as the First Selectman of the Town of Woodbridge. Before seeking elected office she served as an Attorney Advisor for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, helping to develop regulations to implement the 1990 Clean Air Act.

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