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SEEC Co-Chairs Condemn EPA Cuts that Put Families and Communities at Risk

September 7, 2017

Washington D.C. – Today SEEC Co-Chairs Reps. Gerry Connolly, Paul Tonko, and Doris Matsui released the following statement in response to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) budget cuts in H.R. 3354, the omnibus appropriations bill on the House Floor this week.

“We strongly oppose the harmful cuts proposed to the EPA in this bill. The aftermath of Hurricane Harvey is a dire reminder of how important it is to have a fully staffed and funded EPA that can respond quickly to protect communities after disasters, whether from accidental releases of dangerous pollutants at chemical plants or flooding of toxic Superfund sites.

“Rather than supporting a strong EPA that can enforce critical public health protections, this appropriations bill proposes cuts that could lead to reduced or weakened enforcement of public safeguards. Reductions in staffing will mean less capacity to do the Agency’s work and possible delays to cleanup efforts around the country, permit approvals for businesses trying to follow the law, and timely responses to public concerns and emergencies. The bill also cuts funding for clean water infrastructure and local restoration projects.

“Investments in the EPA and its many initiatives that fund local restoration and development are investments in keeping our communities safe and prosperous. Instead of funding these protections, this bill would impose short-sighted cuts that put families at risk.”

Issues:Environment