Trump Administration to Close EPA’s Environmental Justice Offices
Statement from EDF’s Dr. Margot Brown
(WASHINGTON, D.C.) — “A functional and prosperous society needs a healthy workforce, and for 30 years, EPA’s offices of environmental justice helped millions of Americans live healthier lives by protecting the families, communities and workers most exposed to harmful pollution and extreme weather events.
“Eliminating these offices helps no one, and it means EPA will no longer be able to successfully fulfill its mission of protecting the health of every American and the environment. These offices benefit everyone, and leaders across party lines know this. Just last year, House Speaker Mike Johnson urged EPA to award environmental justice funding to support the health of Louisiana communities.
“We cannot and will not lose the decades of progress made to ensure our children and their children have a safer, healthier future. Leaving extreme pollution unchecked means higher healthcare costs, kids suffering from asthma attacks on the playground and higher risks of cancer and respiratory illness for families across the country. The Trump administration’s dangerous strategy to destroy the institutions making us healthier and our air and water cleaner is on full display.
“This decision confirms that President Trump’s agenda is working for corporate polluters, not American families. This administration is turning its back on people closest to the sources of pollution – the people we should stand behind as we work toward a healthier future.”
With more than 3 million members, Environmental Defense Fund creates transformational solutions to the most serious environmental problems. To do so, EDF links science, economics, law, and innovative private-sector partnerships to turn solutions into action. edf.org
Latest press releases
-
El Departamento de Energía de los Estados Unidos cancela el financiamiento para proyectos comunitarios de energía solar en Puerto Rico
January 16, 2026 -
The U.S. Department of Energy Cancels Funding for Community Solar Energy Projects in Puerto Rico
January 16, 2026 -
Draft House Bill Would Gut Toxic Substances Control Act, Despite Overwhelming Public Support for Chemical Protections
January 15, 2026 -
Environmental Defense Fund Applauds Appointment of Chairs for City Council Land Use, Housing and Environmental Protection Committees, Urges Unified Action to Address Joint Crisis
January 15, 2026 -
New Report on Groundwater Details Data Gaps, Opportunities to Protect Critical Water Supply in New Mexico
January 14, 2026 -
Dozens of Public Interest Groups Send Letter to Trump EPA to Oppose Weakening Health-Protective Vehicle Standards
January 14, 2026