Michael Regan will leave his role as administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (E.P.A.) at the end of December after overseeing landmark climate policies and advancing environmental justice initiatives.
Lisa Friedman reports for The New York Times.
In short:
- Michael Regan led the E.P.A. through significant climate initiatives, including emissions reductions and clean energy programs.
- He worked to rebuild the agency’s morale, staffing and scientific integrity after reductions during the Trump administration.
- Jane Nishida, the acting deputy administrator, will serve as acting head for the remainder of the Biden term.
Key quote:
“Together, we confronted climate change with the urgency science demands. We set the strongest standards in history and put billions of dollars to work to spur clean energy development, create good-paying American jobs and lower costs for families.”
— Michael Regan, outgoing E.P.A. administrator
Why this matters:
The E.P.A. plays a critical role in addressing climate change and protecting public health. Regan’s departure comes as climate regulations face potential rollbacks under the incoming Trump administration, raising concerns about the agency's direction and the future of U.S. environmental policy.
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