Charleston Leader

U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), 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 included discussions on topics crucial to West Virginia.

Chairman Capito highlighted two main issues: the approval of West Virginia's class VI well primacy for carbon capture projects and the Muddy Creek Restoration Project. Regarding class VI primacy, she noted, “The proposed final action granting West Virginia our state primacy was published in the Federal Register on November the 25th. This is going to be very important to us.” She emphasized the efficiency of state-level permitting compared to federal processes and asked Zeldin if he would prioritize completing West Virginia's permitting process. Zeldin responded affirmatively, "Yes, Senator."

Capito also addressed concerns about changes in the Muddy Creek Restoration Project initiated by previous administrations. She expressed frustration with what she described as a burdensome cleanup process implemented by the Biden administration. Capito sought Zeldin’s commitment to work with her and reverse these changes for better environmental results. Zeldin replied, “Yes, Chairman Capito... It's my commitment to work with you as soon as, if confirmed.”

Concluding her remarks, Chairman Capito expressed support for Zeldin's nomination, appreciating his efforts in preparing for the hearing and engaging with committee members beforehand. She stated, “I do look very much forward to helping to shepherd you... I fully expect that your confirmation will be very positive.”