EPA Cuts Employees and Revises Focus

Initial cuts to the EPA were made in January, blocked by lower courts and now ruled by the Supreme Court to move forward. About 3,680 employees were lost; more than half were researchers and scientists. Lee Zeldin, EPA administrator, stated that excess regulations were a “hidden tax” on families and that his EPA would ensure “The Great American Comeback.” His comments added a political element to an organization that was meant to remain science focused and independent of political goals. 

According to the EPA’s webpage, new goals include reconsidering regulations on power plants, mercury and toxic emissions; and reporting on greenhouse gas emissions and vehicle emissions to name a few. The Office of Research and Development is dismantled, replaced with a project approach. Zeldin predicts huge saving — but at what cost?

Earth Steward Action:  Be informed, advocate and vote

Sources: 

https://www.epa.gov (powering the great comeback)

https://ca.news.yahoo.com/epa-poised-scrap-landmark-finding-170130266.html