Zeldin Backs EPA Grant Reductions, Confirms Upcoming Reorganization
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EPA chief Lee Zeldin strongly defended the agency’s position on recouping federal grants, despite recent setbacks in court. Zeldin justified the controversial move, arguing that too much money has been obtained in the name of environmental justice without it being used to address environmental issues. He also expressed support for AI technology, as it could be used to review public comments, oversee grants, and reduce backlogs in the agency’s chemicals office.
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EPA Chief Lee Zeldin Defends Federal Grants Clawback
EPA head Lee Zeldin staunchly defended the agency’s stance on federal grants recovery, despite recent legal setbacks. “I have the obligation to ensure we don’t recklessly spend billions in taxpayer dollars,” Zeldin stated during a media briefing, asserting his refusal to be swayed into frivolous spending.
This press briefing follows the US District Court for the District of Columbia ruling that EPA failed to justify why it suspended grants from Inflation Reduction Act programs to green banks under former President Joe Biden. Despite the ongoing case, Zeldin is confident the Trump administration can demonstrate self-dealing, conflicts of interest, unqualified recipients, and negligent oversight.
Zeldin criticized the misuse of funds allocated for environmental justice, pointing to a $50 million grant the EPA withdrew from the Climate Justice Alliance, which advocates for a free Palestine. Their website states, “The path to climate justice travels through a free Palestine.”
Zeldin stressed that the decision was not driven by partisan politics, but by the necessity to ensure environmental issues are directly addressed with the allocated funds.
He dismissed the notion of the government revoking the tax-exempt status of environmental groups, a measure the Trump administration is reportedly contemplating. Zeldin emphasized the importance of abiding by the rules established for tax-exempt status, stating that problems arise when these conditions are not upheld.
Reorganization Plans for EPA
While other Trump administration departments undertake workforce and organizational transformations, EPA leaders, including Zeldin, are crafting their reorganization plans. Amidst speculations about imminent cuts, Zeldin’s team continues to consult with political and career staff to optimize the agency’s performance.
Budget cuts of 65% have been proposed by Zeldin, and agency documents show the possibility of reducing 50% to 75% of the scientific research office. However, Zeldin clarified that his team is scrutinizing “every single office.”
Zeldin is committed to retaining competent staff, indicating that the EPA only needs enough staff to meet its statutory obligations and core mission. He also clarified that the Department of Government Efficiency isn’t significantly involved with the EPA yet.
Zeldin voiced strong support for AI in the EPA, revealing discussions about its potential to streamline public comments, grant oversight, and the reduction of backlogs within the agency’s chemicals office.
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