The Effects of Community Characteristics on Polluter Compliance Levels
研究了社区特征如何通过直接和间接途径影响污染设施的合规水平，发现社区特征对监管干预和设施表现均有显著影响，且直接与间接效应大小相当。
<i>This paper analyzes the effects of community characteristics on compliance levels—emissions relative to effluent limits—at polluting facilities. In particular, it examines both direct effects and indirect effects; the second type of effects represents the linking of two related effects: (1) effects of community characteristics on regulatory decisions to intervene against specific facilities with inspections and penalties; and (2) effects of regulatory interventions on facility compliance levels. Estimation reveals (1) community characteristics significantly affect both regulatory interventions and facility performance; (2) direct effects and indirect effects are generally comparable in magnitude; and (3) total effects are economically meaningful.</i>