Acting EPA Administrator James Payne has dismissed all members from two influential science advisory panels, potentially paving the way for the Trump administration to transform the agency's priorities.
Sean Reilly reports for Politico.
In short:
- All members of the Clean Air Scientific Advisory Committee and Science Advisory Board were removed.
- This move allows the Trump administration to reshuffle the panels with new appointees.
- EPA plans to invite new nominations for the panels, encouraging former members to reapply.
Key quote:
The decision to ‘reset’ these panels was made "to ensure the agency receives scientific advice consistent with its legal obligations to advance our core mission."
— James Payne, acting EPA administrator
Why this matters:
This change could reshape the EPA’s scientific advisory processes, potentially altering the agency’s stance on environmental health standards. It raises concerns about the influence of political appointments on scientific integrity in policy-making and public health.
Related: Federal scientists build defenses against political interference as Trump eyes return
