Charleston Leader

U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito, the Chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, conducted a hearing on the nomination of Lee Zeldin as Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The session marked the first committee meeting of the 119th Congress and also introduced Senator Whitehouse as the Ranking Member.

Chairman Capito acknowledged Zeldin's military and congressional service, emphasizing his potential to advance the EPA's mission. She stated her priority for the EPA to return to its fundamental role of safeguarding public health and the environment while considering energy reliability and economic development needs.

During her opening statement, Chairman Capito said, "I am excited to welcome all of you to the EPW Committee hearing... This is also the first hearing with Senator Whitehouse as the Ranking Member." She praised her collaboration with Ranking Member Whitehouse in passing bipartisan legislation, such as laws supporting carbon capture technology and modernizing the Nuclear Regulatory Commission through the ADVANCE Act.

Capito expressed anticipation for continuing bipartisan efforts in addressing critical issues within their jurisdiction. Introducing President Trump's nominee for EPA leadership, she welcomed former Congressman Lee Zeldin. Highlighting his background, she mentioned his service in both active duty and reserve roles in the U.S. Army and his eight-year tenure representing New York in Congress.

The Chairman commended Zeldin's advocacy for environmental policies benefiting his Long Island district and support for clean energy innovation. She shared her discussions with him regarding his vision for prioritizing EPA work as Administrator.

Capito emphasized that "the EPA must return to its core missions" while effectively managing taxpayer resources by reducing bureaucratic hurdles at state agencies responsible for air, land, and water protection. She noted that efficient management could improve drinking water systems and expedite permits related to air, land, and water.

She added that focusing on core competencies would not only enhance environmental conditions but also spur economic growth. Specific attention should be given to cleaning up brownfields and Superfund sites to foster new economic development opportunities.

The discussion included Zeldin's plans to build upon initiatives from Trump's first administration concerning legacy PFAS contamination. The importance of balancing affordability with electric reliability was underscored amid projections indicating possible rolling blackouts due to retiring power plants alongside rising electricity demand.

Capito stressed that "actions that policymakers... take now will determine whether America will thrive" or face challenges like scarcity or inflation. Expressing confidence in Zeldin's leadership potential at EPA towards these goals aligned with legislative authority granted by Congress; she looked forward discussing further details during this session before recognizing Ranking Member Whitehouse’s opening remarks next on agenda."