Michael Regan, who has been at the helm of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) during President Joe Biden’s administration, announced his departure from the agency effective December 31, just weeks before Biden’s presidency concludes. In a letter addressing EPA employees, Regan expressed pride in the agency’s achievements over the past four years, highlighting successes in addressing climate change, curbing air and water pollution, and disbursing substantial funds under the administration’s climate law aimed at propelling clean energy initiatives. According to Regan, these efforts have significantly reduced harmful greenhouse gas emissions and air pollutants, delivering considerable economic and health improvements in communities that have historically faced higher pollution burdens. By fostering job creation and reducing costs for families, the EPA has sought to enhance overall public life quality.
As the first African American to lead the EPA, Regan emphasized the importance of environmental justice during his tenure. He made strides to center this issue in the agency’s decision-making processes while embarking on a “Journey to Justice” tour in 2021, which included cities such as Jackson, Mississippi, and New Orleans. This tour was instrumental in spotlighting low-income and predominantly minority communities suffering from the consequences of prolonged industrial pollution. A native of North Carolina, Regan mentioned that he was returning to the state with his family after his service at the EPA. In the interim, Jane Nishida, the EPA’s assistant administrator for International and Tribal Affairs, will act as the agency’s lead administrator until the end of Biden’s term, with Regan’s chief of staff, Dan Utech, stepping in as acting deputy administrator.
Reflecting on his first key achievement, Regan noted the EPA’s significant progress in eliminating lead pipes to safeguard drinking water across communities in the United States. His administration also prioritized addressing the contamination from harmful substances like PFAS—known as forever chemicals—that pose risks to public health by infiltrating the products used, the water consumed, and the environments in which children play. Moreover, Regan mentioned the revitalization of the EPA’s enforcement capabilities, particularly following what many criticized as substantial environmental rollbacks during the previous administration, which he labeled as crucial for holding polluters accountable and ensuring the remediation of pollution legacy sites across the nation.
In addition, under Regan’s leadership, the agency achieved other notable victories, including the banning of hazardous substances such as asbestos and trichloroethylene (TCE). The EPA’s swift response to pressing environmental and health crises has categorized this administration as proactive, as evidenced by actions taken in regions like Asheville, North Carolina, and Tampa, Florida. Furthermore, Regan outlined the significant investment in human resources, stating that the EPA had onboarded thousands of new employees, including scientists who had departed during the early Trump years, thus rejuvenating the agency’s workforce.
As the political landscape shifts with the anticipated return of Donald Trump to the presidency, who has already signaled intentions to slash environmental regulations, Regan did not specifically reference his predecessor or Trump’s appointee, former Rep. Lee Zeldin, but his message conveyed resilience and hope for the continuity of environmental protection efforts. In his concluding remarks to staff, he conveyed optimism and confidence in their dedication to furthering public health and environmental safeguards for all U.S. citizens, asserting that the essential work would endure beyond his tenure.
In summary, Regan’s departure marks the end of a progressive chapter for the EPA, characterized by important environmental advancements and an increased focus on social equity. His commitment to these issues during a politically charged climate reflects an ongoing struggle for robust environmental regulation amidst contrasting governmental attitudes toward environmental stewardship. Regan leaves behind a legacy of significant initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of life and fostering a healthier environment for America’s most vulnerable communities. As the EPA transitions to new leadership, the path ahead remains intricately tied to the values and commitments established during Regan’s tenure, emphasizing the need for continued advocacy in the realm of environmental and public health protections.
