John Shimkus actually said...

"The States are by no means junior regulators or the minor leagues of environmental protection."

"Some people might suggest states lack the will to enforce their laws or they are reluctant to pass anything serious. I think that answer is not fair."

"The states are by no means, 'junior regulators' or the minor leagues of environmental protection."

"State regulators have every bit the same educational background, expertise, desire to protect the environment, and sense of professionalism as any employee at the EPA."