Rounds Statement on EPA Rule to Increase Science Transparency

Press Release

U.S. Sen. Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) today issued the following statement on steps that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is taking to increase transparency at the agency. Today, Rounds and House Science Committee Chairman Lamar Smith joined EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt as he signed a proposed rule that would make certain the regulatory science underlying EPA actions is fully transparent, and that the scientific information is publicly available in a manner sufficient for independent validation. It is similar to the HONEST Act, which Rounds and Smith introduced in their respective chambers earlier this year.

"Sound, reliable science is vital to helping us make important policy decisions that impact the health of American families and their livelihoods. Inserting new levels of transparency in the EPA rulemaking process will help make the agency more accountable to the American people and help everyone understand the impact of EPA's decisions. Today's directive is a significant step toward making sure these decisions are not made behind closed doors with information accessible only to those writing the regulations, but rather in the full view of those who will be affected."

"The era of secret science at EPA is coming to an end," said Pruitt. "The ability to test, authenticate, and reproduce scientific findings is vital for the integrity of rulemaking process. Americans deserve to assess the legitimacy of the science underpinning EPA decisions that may impact their lives."

"Administrator Pruitt's announcement ensures that data will be secret no more," said Smith. "For too long, the EPA has issued rules and regulations based on data that has been withheld from the American people. It's likely that in the past, the data did not justify all regulations. Today, Administrator Pruitt rightfully is changing business as usual and putting a stop to hidden agendas."

The HONEST Act would preserve the integrity of the scientific review process by prohibiting the agency from proposing, finalizing or disseminating regulations or assessments based upon science that is not transparent or not reproducible.

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