Friday Night Firings of EPA Scientists Endanger the Health and Safety of Americans

“Trump EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin’s announcement Friday night that he will fire EPA scientists does not stand up to scrutiny in the bright light of Saturday morning. The work done by EPA’s scientists has saved millions of children from poisonous lead, and from asthma attacks caused by air pollution. Their research has revealed the dangers of PFAS chemicals in drinking water and the hazards of wildfire smoke. Guided by these scientific insights, EPA has taken actions for more than half a century – under both Republican and Democratic administrations – that have led to Americans living longer, healthier lives because of cleaner air and water. 

“Zeldin is targeting EPA’s Office of Research and Development, which was provided for by Congress. The scientists in that office conduct work independently. They do not make decisions about regulations that industry interests lobby hard to influence. Rather, they serve the interests of every American, and work to ensure that the U.S. has the best science to protect people and the planet. 

“This is a damaging blow to every American who values a safe environment and to the people who dedicate their lives to protecting human health and the environment under our laws. EDF will vigorously oppose this action and will defend the fundamental right of every person to a clean and safe environment.”

            - Sarah Vogel, Senior Vice President for Healthy Communities, Environmental Defense Fund