One year ago, the United States’ Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was thrown into turmoil when the Trump administration took control. The agency, responsible for protecting our environment and public health, faced major budget cuts, staff reductions, and rollbacks of crucial regulations. The future of the EPA seemed uncertain and many former employees were left feeling disheartened. However, despite these challenges, these dedicated individuals have continued to push back against the changes and hold on to the hope of a reborn agency.
The EPA has a long history of protecting the environment and promoting sustainable practices. It was established in 1970 by President Richard Nixon, in response to public concern about the growing pollution crisis. Over the years, the agency has played a vital role in reducing pollution, safeguarding our water and air quality, and enforcing environmental laws. However, since the Trump administration took office, the EPA’s mission has been under threat.
The administration’s proposed budget for the EPA was a mere $6.1 billion, a drastic cut from the previous year’s budget of $8.2 billion. This significant reduction would have severely limited the agency’s ability to carry out its important work. The proposed budget also included a 31% reduction in funding for the agency’s science and technology programs, which are crucial in providing evidence-based solutions to environmental issues.
In addition to budget cuts, the EPA also faced a reduction in staff. Many experienced and knowledgeable employees were forced to leave due to layoffs and voluntary buyouts. The agency’s workforce was reduced by almost 20%, leaving critical positions unfilled. This loss of expertise and institutional knowledge is a significant blow to the EPA’s ability to fulfill its mission effectively.
Furthermore, the Trump administration has rolled back crucial regulations put in place to protect our environment and public health. These include the Clean Power Plan, which aimed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from power plants, and the Clean Water Rule, which protected the nation’s waterways from pollution. These actions have sparked outrage from former EPA employees and environmentalists across the country.
Despite these challenges, the former employees of the EPA have not given up. They continue to push back against the changes and fight for the agency’s mission to be upheld. Many have joined forces with environmental organizations and filed lawsuits to challenge the rollbacks of regulations. Some have even become whistleblowers, speaking out against actions taken by the current administration that they believe are harmful to the environment.
One such individual is Elizabeth Southerland, who served as the Director of the Office of Science and Technology during the Obama administration. She resigned from her position in protest of the budget cuts and rollbacks of regulations. In an interview with NPR, she stated, “I could not be party to … undermining the science behind the regulation that were being rolled back.”
Former employees of the EPA also continue to advocate for the agency’s future. They have joined forces with environmental groups, such as the Environmental Defense Fund and Natural Resources Defense Council, to raise awareness and educate the public about the importance of the EPA’s work. They have also been actively involved in the federal budget process, urging Congress to reject the proposed cuts to the agency.
Despite the challenges faced by the EPA, its former employees remain hopeful for the agency’s future. They believe that with the support of the public and Congress, the EPA can be reborn and continue its crucial work of protecting our environment and public health. As David Baron, a former EPA lawyer and current director of the Earthjustice Rocky Mountain office, stated, “We still believe the truth will eventually prevail … and [the] EPA will be restored to its mission of protecting human health and the environment.”
In addition to pushing back against the changes, former EPA employees are also looking towards the future. They envision an agency that is well-funded, with a strong and dedicated workforce, and a commitment to its mission. They dream of an EPA that is free from political interference and truly prioritizes the protection of our environment and public health.
One year after the Trump administration threw the EPA into chaos, former employees are still fighting for the agency’s survival. Their determination and resilience serve as a reminder that the EPA’s mission is not just a job, but a calling to protect our planet for future generations. And with their unwavering dedication, we can hope for an EPA reborn, stronger and more determined than ever to fulfill its vital role in safeguarding our environment.
