EPA Excluded Its Own Top Scientists When It Rewrote Science Rules

"When former EPA administrator Scott Pruitt launched an effort to limit what kinds of scientific studies could be used to protect public health, he left out some key experts: the Environmental Protection Agency’s own Office of the Science Advisor, according to an email exchange obtained by The Washington Post.

Tom Sinks, director of the office, said in an April 24 email that “Even though OSA and I have not participated in the development of this document and I just this moment obtained it (have yet to read it), I am listed as the point of contact.”

Sinks added, accurately, that “the proposal likely touches upon three aspects of OSA work — public access to EPA funded research, human subjects research protection, and scientific integrity” — all of which fall in his area of responsibility."

Steven Mufson and Chris Mooney report for the Washington Post October 3, 2018.

SEE ALSO:

"The Government's Latest Hearing on the EPA's Science Transparency Rule Bolstered Outsider Scientists' Opinions" (Pacific Standard)

"Top EPA Science Office Sidelined as Political Appointees Hatched Controversial Science Proposal" (Union of Concerned Scientists)