On the recordMarch 10, 2021
today I rise to support the nomination of Michael S. Regan to be Administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency as we celebrate the Agency's 50th anniversary and the return of the United States to the Paris Agreement, which the agency will play a key role in meeting. Reducing carbon pollution and other forms of air and water pollution has generated enormous environmental, health, and economic benefits over the last 50 years. While the Trump administration claimed that rolling back clean air protections frees up economic activity, in fact, reducing climate emissions is critical to a thriving, sustainable economy. Fortunately, many States maintained a strong commitment to protecting air quality and addressing climate change. Maryland, under Republican and Democratic Governors, has benefitted from participating in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative with 10 other States. However, the EPA is indispensable: Air pollution crosses State borders and requires strong and fair Federal regulation. I am energized by Mr. Regan's commitment to furthering progress on environmental justice. Research shows that air pollution and climate change disproportionately harm low-income communities and communities of color. Maryland suffers disproportionately from upwind pollution from fossil-fuel fired power plants out of State.…





