"EPA Employees Unite: A Bold Declaration of Dissent for Science and Public Health!"

EPA Employees Unite in Declaration of Dissent Against Current Administration Policies

On June 30, 2025, over 170 employees of the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) publicly expressed their dissent against the current administration’s policies through a Declaration of Dissent. This unprecedented move highlights growing concerns among EPA staff regarding the erosion of the agency’s foundational mission to protect human health and the environment.

Background and Context

The declaration comes in the wake of significant policy shifts under the Trump administration, which many employees believe undermine decades of progress made since the EPA’s establishment in 1970. The signatories argue that recent actions prioritize deregulation and the interests of polluters over scientific integrity and public health.

In their statement, the employees emphasized, “Today, we stand together in dissent against the current administration’s focus on harmful deregulation, mischaracterization of previous EPA actions, and disregard for scientific expertise.” This collective voice reflects a deep-seated concern for the agency’s future and its ability to fulfill its critical role.

Support and Solidarity

The declaration has garnered substantial support, with over 3,500 individuals rallying behind the cause. Notably, the movement has attracted attention from prominent figures in the scientific community, including 20 Nobel laureates who signed the letter anonymously due to fears of retaliation. Jeremy Berg, a former editor-in-chief of Science magazine and one of the signatories, noted that the dissent is not politically motivated but rather a call to restore the EPA’s commitment to its mission.

Key Concerns Raised

The declaration outlines five primary concerns:

1. Disregard for Scientific Consensus: The employees argue that current policies benefit polluters at the expense of scientific integrity.
2. Dismantling of Research and Development: There are fears that the agency’s research capabilities are being systematically weakened.
3. Reversal of Progress in Vulnerable Communities: The signatories highlight the detrimental impact on marginalized groups disproportionately affected by pollution.
4. Undermining Public Trust: The erosion of trust in the EPA could have long-lasting implications for public health and safety.
5. Promotion of a Culture of Fear: Employees report feeling pressured to choose between their professional integrity and job security.

Administrative Response

In response to the declaration, EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin defended the administration’s policies, stating that decisions are based on thorough briefings from career professionals within the agency. He characterized the dissent as a misrepresentation of the administration’s goals, asserting that efforts are aimed at reducing reliance on foreign fossil fuels and enhancing energy independence.

However, critics argue that Zeldin’s policies threaten to reverse crucial environmental protections. An examination by the Associated Press revealed that proposed rollbacks could potentially save approximately 30,000 lives and $275 billion annually, raising alarms about the long-term consequences of such actions.

Voices from Within the Agency

Amelia Hertzberg, an EPA environmental protection specialist who was placed on administrative leave earlier this year, expressed her dismay at the agency’s current trajectory. Hertzberg’s work focused on protecting vulnerable populations from pollution, and she lamented the potential closure of her department, which plays a vital role in addressing environmental justice.

Nobel laureate Carol Greider echoed these sentiments, linking recent extreme weather events to climate change and emphasizing the necessity of scientific expertise within the EPA. She warned that the loss of funding for scientific research could deter future generations from pursuing careers in environmental science, leading to a long-term deficit in expertise.

Conclusion

The Declaration of Dissent marks a significant moment in the history of the EPA, showcasing the courage of its employees to speak out against policies they believe jeopardize public health and environmental integrity. As the agency navigates these turbulent waters, the call for a return to its foundational mission resonates louder than ever. The future of the EPA—and the health of the American public—may depend on the administration’s response to this unprecedented act of dissent.

For those interested in supporting the cause, the declaration and a petition for further action can be found on the Stand Up for Science platform.