COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) - A published report suggests that the agency responsible for keeping watch over South Carolina's environment and health has fallen short of that task.

An investigation by The State newspaper of Columbia indicates
that the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control often
sides with companies it regulates during disputes with residents.
The report also said the agency often shares crucial information
slowly or not at all, and sometimes fails to alert the public to
dangers.

The report says the problem rests with the agency's top management, whose major policy decisions have been challenged repeatedly in recent years by lawmakers, judges, environmentalists, doctors and residents.

DHEC Commissioner Earl Hunter said he is thoroughly convinced
that his staff is committed to try to do the best it can.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)