US EPA grapples with funding reductions

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency faces significant operational challenges as it attempts to maintain staffing levels and core functions despite a nearly $1 billion budget cut.

Kevin Bogardus reports for E&E News.

In short:

The EPA's budget for fiscal 2024 is reduced to $9.2 billion, affecting various programs.
The agency plans to keep staffing around 15,130 full-time equivalents despite the cuts.
Superfund program receives support from new "polluter pays" taxes, partially offsetting budget reductions.

Key quote:

"I will say that as with everybody else a level budget is, in fact, a cut because of inflation and extra costs."

— Stan Meiburg, executive director of Wake Forest University's Sabin Center for Environment and Sustainability

Why this matters:

With fewer resources, the EPA may struggle to enforce regulations, monitor pollution, and support state and local environmental programs. The reduction in budget could also impact the agency’s ability to respond to environmental emergencies, conduct scientific research, and promote sustainable practices. The ripple effects of such a significant financial blow extend beyond the agency itself, potentially jeopardizing public health and environmental quality.

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