Which agency is responsible for environmental protection regulatory and enforcement authority?

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is the agency tasked with safeguarding the environment through regulatory and enforcement authority. This includes creating and enforcing regulations that protect human health and the environment by monitoring air and water quality, controlling pollution, and overseeing waste management. The EPA develops guidelines and standards that must be adhered to, ensuring that companies and individuals comply with laws aimed at preserving natural resources and public health.

The other agencies listed have specific areas of responsibility that do not encompass broad environmental protection. For example, the FDA regulates food safety and pharmaceuticals, OSHA focuses on worker safety and health in the workplace, and the HHS oversees public health initiatives and services. While these agencies play crucial roles in their respective domains, the EPA is uniquely focused on environmental issues, making it the correct answer in this context.