Bonamici Statement on Nomination of Scott Pruitt as EPA Administrator

WASHINGTON, DC [12/07/16] — Today Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), the top Democrat on the House Science Committee’s Environment Subcommittee, released the following statement after President-elect Donald Trump selected Oklahoma Attorney General Scott Pruitt as his nominee for Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency:

“Scott Pruitt’s close ties with fossil fuel companies are deeply concerning for a nominee who will direct the agency tasked with protecting the environment and combatting climate change. As Oklahoma’s Attorney General, Mr. Pruitt led a legal battle against President Obama’s Clean Power Plan, a plan that builds on the efforts of states like Oregon to create a unified, national approach to our biggest environmental challenge—climate change. The Clean Power Plan represents an opportunity for American ingenuity that will allow us to benefit from the needed transition to a low-carbon economy. Many businesses in Oregon have stepped up and demonstrated their support to address climate change. Nike, Genentech, Intel, Lam Research, and Portland General Electric are among the more than 150 companies nationwide that have signed the American Business Act on Climate Pledge. Environmental protection, economic development, and job creation can go hand in hand, but instead of finding ways to invest in the development of renewable and sustainable resources, Mr. Pruitt continues to support fossil fuel industries.

“As the top Democrat on the Science Committee’s Environment Subcommittee, I take my responsibility seriously to protect the environment and address the effects of climate change. The EPA Administrator should be working to implement the historic Paris Agreement to reduce carbon emissions worldwide. Additionally, the EPA stands as a strong defense for the clean air, water, and planet we all need to live healthy, productive lives.”

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