EPA Downgrades Science Advisory Office

• The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) plans to merge its Office of the Science Advisor with the Office of Science Policy.  
• The science adviser works across the agency to ensure that the highest quality science informs the agency’s policies and decisions.
• This move would effectively downgrade the position, putting at least two more layers between the science adviser and the EPA administrator.

Why it matters

This is the latest among several steps the Trump administration has taken to diminish the role of scientific research in policymaking.

In a separate, unusual move, the EPA on Tuesday placed the head of its Office of Children’s Health, Dr. Ruth Etzel, on administrative leave, while declining to give a reason for the move. Agency officials told Etzel, a pediatric epidemiologist, that the move was not disciplinary.

In pushing to tighten regulations on pollution – which can affect children more powerfully than adults – Etzel had clashed frequently with Trump administration appointees who sought to loosen pollution rules.

Regarding the de facto demotion of the science adviser, Bloomberg reports:

“Critics say the move could diminish the role and stature of scientists at the EPA, muffling their voice in the agency’s regulatory decision making.”

What do you think?

Do you support the EPA’s plans to downgrade its science adviser? Why or why not? Tell your reps what you think, then share your thoughts below.

—Sara E. Murphy

(Photo Credit: iStock.com / Skyhobo)