David Fotouhi, Deputy Administrator of the EPA, defended the agency's reorganization of its research office, which replaced the Office of Research and Development with the Office of Applied Science and Environmental Solutions. He stated that the changes align better with the agency's mission. However, some Democrats have expressed concerns about the scientific independence of the new office, fearing it may be influenced by political agendas. Fotouhi rejected these critiques, asserting that the previous structure was also led by political appointees.
Key facts
- EPA replaced its Office of Research and Development with OASES last year.
- Concerns raised about scientific independence under the new structure.
- Fotouhi stated the reorganization aligns with the agency's mission.
- The EPA dismantled the IRIS program as part of the reorganization.
- The new office aims to enhance interagency coordination on assessments.
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