U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito, chair of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, recently led a hearing to discuss the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2026 with EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin.
During her opening remarks, Chairman Capito praised Administrator Zeldin for his leadership in redirecting the EPA towards its core mission. She noted that Zeldin is working to reverse what she described as federal overreach from the previous administration and is refocusing on issues important to West Virginia and the nation.
Capito expressed support for Zeldin’s efforts to rescind regulatory measures such as the Biden Clean Power Plan 2.0 rule, which she argued hindered economic growth by targeting fossil-fuel electric generation. She commended both President Trump’s administration and Zeldin for prioritizing West Virginia through initiatives like an agency-wide PFAS strategy and granting authority to permit carbon dioxide sequestration wells.
Highlighting recent changes within the EPA, Capito mentioned that over 130 experts have been reassigned to expedite reviews of new chemicals and pesticides. She emphasized that addressing delays in this process is crucial for maintaining competitiveness in global markets.
Capito also thanked Administrator Zeldin for being a good steward of taxpayer dollars, citing actions like canceling a $50 million grant to Climate Justice Alliance due to concerns about their activities. Additionally, she acknowledged efforts by the EPA to investigate funds awarded under programs like the ‘Green Bank’ program from the Inflation Reduction Act.
The proposed FY26 budget suggests significant reductions in certain areas of the EPA. While some cuts are seen as beneficial by reducing burdensome regulations introduced during Biden’s tenure, others may impact bipartisan programs critical for environmental cleanup and water safety.
Capito expressed concern over potential funding cuts affecting vital initiatives such as Brownfields program funding and Clean Water State Revolving Funds. She stressed the importance of federal assistance through these funds, noting past bipartisan investments aimed at improving water infrastructure nationwide.
In conclusion, Capito indicated her willingness to collaborate with Administrator Zeldin on ensuring adequate resources remain available for essential water systems through future appropriations processes.
