Title I - Hazardous Substances Releases, Liability, Compensation

Title I of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act establishes federal authority to respond to releases of hazardous substances, defines strict liability for parties responsible for contamination, and provides a framework for compensating cleanup costs and damages to affected persons and natural resources. It also outlines the mechanisms for cost recovery, joint and several liability, and the role of the federal government in overseeing remedial actions.