Rounds Statement on EPA Advisory Committee Directive

WASHINGTON—U.S. Sen. Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Subcommittee on Superfund, Waste Management and Regulatory Oversight, today joined Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Scott Pruitt in announcing a directive to improve the independence, transparency and diversity on EPA federal advisory committees.

“Sound, reliable science is vital to helping the EPA make important policy decisions that impact the health of American families and their livelihoods,” said Rounds. “The work conducted by scientists at the EPA should be able to stand the test of time, not be subject to partisan politics. Today’s directive is a significant step toward making certain EPA scientific advisory committees are comprised of independent and diverse individuals who can provide EPA with a variety of perspectives on the best way to accomplish its mission. It was an honor to attend today’s announcement and I thank Administrator Pruitt for his continued commitment to restoring order at the EPA.”

Pruitt’s directive will strengthen advisory committee member independence, increase state and local government participation, and enhance geographic diversity. Key advisory committees at the EPA include the Science Advisory Board, the Clean Air Scientific Advisory Committee and the Board of Scientific Counselors.