EWG Applauds Nomination of Gina McCarthy to Head EPA

Washington, D.C. – President Obama’s selection of Gina McCarthy as administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency “is a bold choice that reflects the president’s strong commitment to protecting public health and the environment,” Environmental Working Group (EWG) Executive Director Heather White said today.

If confirmed, McCarthy, an EPA veteran, would succeed Administrator Lisa P. Jackson, who resigned the position in December after enacting the most sweeping protections for air quality in two decades during Obama’s first term.

EWG’s White said:

“Ms. McCarthy is a bold, strong choice for EPA Administrator.  She understands that environmental protection is critical to public health and a vibrant economy. We congratulate Ms. McCarthy on her nomination. If she is confirmed, it is our hope that she will follow the path Administrator Jackson has set in protecting the public from the risks posed by toxic chemicals and push Congress to overhaul the failed Toxic Substances Control Act. Other top priorities for the next Administrator should include concrete steps to reduce harmful agricultural chemicals that foul our waterways and drinking water, apply rigorous science to determine how fracking for oil and natural gas affects water and air quality, and continue to push policies that reduce our greenhouse gas emissions.

“McCarthy has had a long and tested career at both the state and federal levels pushing for common-sense policies that protect our air, land and water, and she has demonstrated her willingness to hear from all sides during these important debates.

“Environmental Working Group stands ready to help Ms. McCarthy and the Obama administration as they work to address some of the most pressing environmental and public health problems of our time.”

McCarthy currently serves as assistant administrator for EPA’s Office of Air and Radiation.

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