House Hearing Was Political Meddling Masquerading as Improving Science – EDF Action

“Today’s hearing by the House Science, Space and Technology Committee was an exploration of a non-existent problem – but it carries the potential to put America’s clean air, clean water, and public health at risk.

“The hearing was titled ‘Make EPA Great Again’ – ironic, coming from a Committee that has a long history of trying to hamper, disempower and underfund EPA’s vital efforts to protect public health and safety. Under the leadership of Rep. Lamar Smith, the House Science Committee has made repeated attempts to undermine EPA – including through two bills, the so-called Secret Science bill and the Science Advisory Board Reform Act, that are expected to be reintroduced soon.

“To a large extent, today’s hearing involved Members of Congress – who are politicians, not scientists – accusing the professional scientists at EPA of making decisions that were too political – a situation they seem to think can be remedied with more oversight by politicians.

“We agree with Rep. Don Beyer – or at least with his ‘Keep EPA Great’ hat. Thanks to the Clean Air Act and other safeguards, and EPA’s diligent enforcement of them, we have made tremendous progress in addressing the pollution and environmental hazards of our pre-EPA past. We should keep EPA strong, and away from political meddling masquerading as ‘improving science.’ Any other path will put Americans’ health in jeopardy.”

            - Elizabeth Thompson, president of EDF Action