EPA Administrator Advocates for Ending Government Shutdown
During a policy event hosted by Breitbart News, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin expressed that now is an urgent time to resolve the shutdown affecting the agency. He emphasized that this shutdown is jeopardizing efforts to maintain clean air, land, and water for all Americans.
Zeldin spoke with Breitbart News Washington bureau chief Matthew Boyle as eight Senate Democrats diverged from their party to push legislation aimed at reopening the federal government. He pointed out that while the EPA has accessed some reserve funds, ongoing government shutdowns have put significant pressure on the agency’s ability to fulfill its environmental protection mission.
“Let’s make sure the government stays open and functional,” Zeldin stated. He added that a basic expectation for Americans is to see their federal government operate effectively. “Right now, we’re using carryover funds, but if this continues, there could be serious consequences for our work in protecting the environment.” He noted that agencies had already begun furloughs, but many employees remained active.
He also warned that the consequences of a failed deal could severely impact the agency’s mission to ensure a clean environment. “There’s really no time like the present,” he reiterated regarding the need to end the shutdown.
Zeldin mentioned that Democrats were aware of the increasing challenges faced by American families due to the shutdown, and that these issues would only escalate.
Despite the ongoing closure, the EPA has been maintaining critical operations. In response to inquiries, an EPA spokesperson remarked, “The Trump administration’s EPA is focused on both protecting the environment and economic growth while ensuring the highest standards for air, land, and water.” They criticized Democrats for allowing funding to diminish, claiming it hinders essential programs and compromises the agency’s ability to safeguard the environment.
According to the spokesperson, Democrats seem to be prioritizing their own extensive policy agenda, which may threaten both environmental progress and economic stability, while pushing for a substantial financial plan that could be detrimental to the American public.
The agency has implemented emergency plans, allowing it to continue vital work such as:
- Protecting EPA property and resources
- Conducting law enforcement and investigations
- Providing emergency and disaster support
- Carrying out Superfund work
- Engaging in preparedness activities
On the flip side, the ongoing shutdown poses risks to numerous government operations, including:
- Issuing new grants or agreements
- Conducting civil enforcement inspections
- Reviewing pending state requests for permits and standards
Even amidst the challenges, the EPA is continuing to execute many of its essential tasks. This includes:
- Updating lead guidance to expedite cleanup of Superfund sites
- Issuing guidance aimed at wildfire prevention
- Finalizing agreements with companies for cleanup responsibilities
- Establishing partnerships for better agricultural practices
- Removing hazardous waste from contaminated sites
- Approving cleanup plans for specific environmental locations
- Completing actions to eliminate hazardous materials from contaminated areas
“Democrats in Congress could put an end to this shutdown immediately by supporting a clean, bipartisan funding extension rather than engaging in political maneuvers,” the spokesperson concluded.
