Trump Administration Considers Overhauling EPA Climate Regulations and Workforce

EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin has recommended rescinding the Endangerment Finding, a key climate policy, while planning significant EPA staff and budget cuts.

The Endangerment Finding, established in 2009, underpins federal climate regulations by recognizing greenhouse gases as a threat to public health and welfare.
EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin has urged the Trump administration to revoke the Endangerment Finding, potentially dismantling the legal foundation for regulating greenhouse gas emissions.
Revoking the finding could face significant legal challenges, as it is supported by extensive scientific evidence and has been upheld by courts multiple times, including through provisions in the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act.
President Trump announced plans to cut 65% of the EPA's workforce or spending, raising concerns about the agency's ability to fulfill its mission of protecting air, water, and public health.
Environmental and legal experts warn that these actions could severely weaken U.S. climate policies, increase pollution, and exacerbate climate-related disasters.