Dr. Lynn Dekleva's transition from lobbying to leading critical regulatory decisions at the E.P.A. sparks scrutiny as the agency reassesses its formaldehyde regulations.
Former Lobbyist at E.P.A. Advocates for Chemicals Linked to Cancer
Former Lobbyist at E.P.A. Advocates for Chemicals Linked to Cancer
The E.P.A.'s controversial new chemical approvals raise concerns over regulatory integrity.
The Environmental Protection Agency (E.P.A.) has found itself at the center of controversy as it incorporates former industry lobbyists into its decision-making processes. Dr. Lynn Dekleva, a prominent figure during her tenure with the American Chemistry Council, now oversees the E.P.A.’s office responsible for approving new chemical substances, including formaldehyde - a chemical associated with both cancer and severe respiratory issues.
Despite the well-documented health risks, Dekleva once led aggressive efforts to curtail federal regulations on formaldehyde. Her appointment at the E.P.A. raises questions about the agency's commitment to public health, particularly in light of the chemical industry's strong opposition to new regulations introduced in 2021.
The American Chemistry Council, where Dekleva held a significant role, has prioritized reversing these regulatory efforts. They are campaigning for a halt to the E.P.A.'s investigations into formaldehyde and are advocating for a complete overhaul of the agency's chemical risk assessment program. This controversial stance is underscored by Dekleva's authority over crucial safety review processes at the agency, leading to concerns among health advocates and environmentalists alike.
In addition to Dekleva's appointment, another former lobbyist, Nancy Beck, now serves at the E.P.A. focused on regulating existing chemicals. This influx of industry veterans has prompted skepticism regarding the agency's direction under recent leadership, with a consensus that a balance must be struck between industry interests and the safety of the public.
These developments come as the president of the American Chemistry Council, Chris Jahn, publicly acknowledged the group’s intent to challenge “unnecessary regulation” of chemicals, advocating for measures he claims are essential for national health and economic vitality. As the E.P.A. navigates these complex waters, observers will be watching closely to see how the agency balances the pressures of the chemical industry against its mandate to protect public health.
Despite the well-documented health risks, Dekleva once led aggressive efforts to curtail federal regulations on formaldehyde. Her appointment at the E.P.A. raises questions about the agency's commitment to public health, particularly in light of the chemical industry's strong opposition to new regulations introduced in 2021.
The American Chemistry Council, where Dekleva held a significant role, has prioritized reversing these regulatory efforts. They are campaigning for a halt to the E.P.A.'s investigations into formaldehyde and are advocating for a complete overhaul of the agency's chemical risk assessment program. This controversial stance is underscored by Dekleva's authority over crucial safety review processes at the agency, leading to concerns among health advocates and environmentalists alike.
In addition to Dekleva's appointment, another former lobbyist, Nancy Beck, now serves at the E.P.A. focused on regulating existing chemicals. This influx of industry veterans has prompted skepticism regarding the agency's direction under recent leadership, with a consensus that a balance must be struck between industry interests and the safety of the public.
These developments come as the president of the American Chemistry Council, Chris Jahn, publicly acknowledged the group’s intent to challenge “unnecessary regulation” of chemicals, advocating for measures he claims are essential for national health and economic vitality. As the E.P.A. navigates these complex waters, observers will be watching closely to see how the agency balances the pressures of the chemical industry against its mandate to protect public health.
