U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito led a hearing on Apr. 29 to examine the Environmental Protection Agency’s proposed budget for fiscal year 2027. As chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, Capito questioned EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin about repealing recent power sector strategies, handling funds from the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund, and addressing PFAS contamination.
The discussion is significant as it addresses national concerns over energy reliability, environmental regulation, and funding for clean water in rural communities. The Senate Environment and Public Works Committee oversees federal programs related to environmental quality, natural resources, and infrastructure to balance conservation with national needs according to the official website.
During the hearing, Capito asked about efforts to repeal rules from the previous administration that she said targeted coal production. “All the comments thus far have talked about the urgent need to generate more electricity… Will you discuss your efforts to repeal the Biden EPA power sector strategy and how that will lead to more affordable, reliable electricity while continuing to protect public health and welfare?” Zeldin replied: “What we saw… was an attack with many rules seeking to strangulate coal out of existence… We are working to repeal Clean Power Plan 2.0… we are rolling back that attack that we saw on coal and other sources of power.” When asked if these actions fell within congressional authority under existing laws like the Clean Air Act and Clean Water Act, Zeldin said: “Yes ma’am.”
Capito also raised concerns about returning rescinded Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund dollars if Congress affirms their removal: “Do you commit to quickly returning these funds to the US Treasury?” Zeldin responded: “Enthusiastically.” On PFAS contamination liability for passive receivers such as small water companies or agricultural users under CERCLA regulations, he said: “We believe strongly that the polluter should pay… There isn’t a liability settlement that I’m here to report on, and a Congressional solution would certainly be ideal.”
Capito emphasized support for State Revolving Funds (SRFs) in providing safe drinking water in rural areas where financing options are limited. She asked if Zeldin would work with states on SRF implementation; he answered: “Yes, chairman.” The committee maintains its administrative base in the Senate Dirksen Office Building according to its official website.
The Senate Environment and Public Works Committee handles legislation affecting environmental policy nationwide—including wildlife protection—through subcommittees focused on clean air, water resources, transportation infrastructure according to its official website.
As oversight continues into federal regulatory priorities affecting energy production and environmental cleanup across states represented by members such as Kevin Cramer and Cynthia Lummis alongside Capito according to its official website—the outcomes may influence future congressional action regarding both industry regulation standards and community support programs.
