Statement: Senator Carper releases valuable report on EPA’s pandemic of pollution

New report describes potential link between air pollution and COVID-19; addresses EPA’s rollbacks of clean air protections during pandemic

Environment Iowa

DES MOINES– Ahead of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee hearing today, featuring testimony from Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Andrew Wheeler, Sen. Tom Carper released a staff report summarizing the clean air rollbacks the EPA has proposed or finalized since March 1.

Since the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic was declared a public health emergency in March 2020, the EPA has continued its deregulation efforts without pause. In some cases, the agency has actually accelerated its agenda, rushing to finalize rules without adequate public input.

Entitled “A Pandemic of Pollution,” Sen. Carper’s report summarizes the administration’s clean air rollbacks — which are occurring despite emerging research demonstrating a link between air pollution exposure and adverse outcomes from COVID-19.

Morgan Folger, Clean Cars Campaign director for Environment America, issued the following statement:

“Thank you Senator Carper for drawing attention to the administration’s reckless clean air and climate protection rollbacks. From gutting the clean car standards to flatlining particulate matter regulations, the EPA is putting our health and our climate at risk. When the coronavirus crisis subsides, the climate crisis will still be with us and will continue to accelerate every day that we postpone proactive measures. Instead of foregoing its responsibility and mission to protect our health and the environment, the EPA should listen to the scientists and strengthen clean air protections.”

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Environment Iowa is a citizen based advocacy organization that works to protect our clean air, water, and open space.