A recent article by The New York Times reports that documents shared with the US House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology describe the intent to eliminate up to 75% of the US EPA Office of Research and Development (US EPA/ORD) workforce while reassigning the remaining employees.
Based on the important work in which the US EPA/ORD toxicologists, chemists, biologists, risk assessors, and others engage, this action “could hamper clean water and wastewater improvements, air quality monitoring, the cleanup of toxic industrial sites, and other parts of the agency’s mission,” according to The New York Times.
SOT agrees. Science is not political and will always be vital to everyday life. The US EPA/ORD provides essential research that protects public health, as well as animal and environmental health. This research informs not only federal regulations but also those at the state, community, and tribal levels, protecting health and well-being. Additionally, scientists rely upon the resources and research of the US EPA/ORD to inform and assist their work and studies.
Without the efforts of the US EPA/ORD, public health concerns such as air and water quality could be drastically affected. There would be a reduced understanding of the risk of toxic chemicals. The ability of the US to respond to disasters, both natural and man-made, would be hindered without the cumulative research and assessments conducted by the US EPA/ORD. In short, the repercussions of the proposed plan could be far-reaching.
If you are concerned about the closing of the US EPA/ORD, you may send emails or letters to Representative Brian Babin, Chair of the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, and Representative Zoe Lofgren, Ranking Member. Also, you may express your concern to your Senators and House Representative. If you need help doing so, please refer to this compilation of resources.
To our colleagues with the US EPA/ORD, we support you and your continued ability to conduct excellent science.
This statement is being shared under the SOT President’s name as part of their official duties and should not be interpreted as their personal or professional opinions.