Attorney General's News Release

June 23, 2004

Nixon files suit against the owner of Laclede County well-drilling business

Jefferson City, Mo. — Attorney General Jay Nixon is suing the owner of a Stoutland well-drilling business, alleging he violated several state environmental protection laws in Camden, Laclede, Phelps and Webster counties. The lawsuit was filed in Laclede County against Ross Love, the owner of Love's Plumbing and Electric.

Nixon says the violations by Love include failing to renew his permit to operate as a pump installer in Missouri; failing to submit pump information to the Department of Natural Resources, and installing a pump without a permit.

"Environmental laws are put in place to protect human health," Nixon says. "When you are dealing with drinking water, obtaining the appropriate permits and submitting the necessary information to regulators help ensure safeguards are in place."

Missouri regulations require pump installation contractors to submit a pump information record to the Department of Natural Resources within 60 days to document the work performed. Drillers who do not submit pump information can face penalties. The lawsuit alleges Love failed to submit pump information on 11 occasions; as a result, he currently owes $2,640 in penalty fees.

Nixon says Love also has violated the Missouri Well Water Drillers Act by failing to renew his permit to operate as a pump installer. According to MDNR records, Love has failed to hold a valid permit to install pumps since Aug. 27, 2001. The lawsuit also alleges that Love installed a pump at Lazy Lee's One Stop in Stoutland without a valid pump installation contractor permit from the department.

Nixon is asking the court to order Love's Plumbing and Electric to stop further violations of state environmental laws by obtaining all required permits for pump installation. The lawsuit also asks the defendants be ordered to pay appropriate penalties to the state.

Inquiries from consumers should be directed to consumer@ago.mo.gov or 1-800-392-8222 (from within Missouri) or 573-751-3321 (outside Missouri).

All media inquiries should be directed to Press Secretary John Fougere.

E-mail      Phone: 573-751-8844         Fax: 573-751-5818