WASHINGTON, DC . . . Today Rep. Ralph Hall (TX-04), Chairman Emeritus of the Science, Space, and Technology Committee, questioned witnesses at a Full Committee hearing titled, “Examining the Science of EPA Overreach: A Case Study in Texas.” The hearing addressed the scientific justification and collective impacts of regulations, polices, and practices implemented under the ever-expanding jurisdiction of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The hearing also examined the EPA’s effects on state sovereignty.

“Our Committee has played an important role in providing effective oversight of the EPA for several years, highlighting numerous instances when proposed regulations have been based on flawed, non-transparent science,” stated Hall. “The State of Texas is a case study of the EPA’s overreach and the Administration’s attempt to grab virtually limitless environmental authority through the EPA.”

Hall continued, “One of today’s witnesses, Mr. Kenneth Dierschke, president of the Texas Farm Bureau, addressed a proposed rule by the EPA that would expand its regulatory authority under the Clean Water Act – a proposal that would have serious implications for our Nation’s farmers and ranchers, including farmers and ranchers in the Fourth District. Mr. Dierschke’s testimony follows a trend of testimonies citing the EPA’s lack of sufficient science to justify expensive regulations resulting in minimal results.

“It’s also important to note the last two EPA Administrators have admitted U.S. climate regulations alone won’t change global temperatures.  Just over the last five years the U.S. spent $77 billion on climate change – that’s without counting the cost of EPA regulations. Looking at the numbers – the cost to hardworking taxpayers during a weak economy, the number of businesses and jobs negatively impacted through burdensome regulations, and the minimal impact the EPA’s regulations have made – the end does not seem to justify the means.

“As Chairman Emeritus of this Committee and the senior member of the Energy and Commerce Committee, I will continue to examine the science at the EPA. We must continue to insist on sound science, transparent science, peer-reviewed science, and respect for the proper role of state regulators. After all, it is in the best interest of all Americans for the EPA to support states’ efforts and listen to state experts’ firsthand knowledge. A one-size-fits-all government overreach is not the answer.”

To learn more about the hearing, click here.

Rep. Hall (left) questions witnesses at hearing, “Examining the Science of EPA Overreach: A Case Study in Texas.”

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