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EPA Chief Celebrates Endangerment Finding Repeal Amid Climate Concerns

4/9/2026

Summary

Story summary

EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin defended the repeal of the 2009 endangerment finding during a speech to climate change skeptics at the Heartland Institute.
He called the repeal a "moment to celebrate," arguing it would benefit the economy and reduce regulatory burdens.
The decision aligns with the Trump administration's rollback of numerous environmental protections.
On the same day, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reported that March was the warmest on record, raising concerns among environmentalists.
Critics, including Joe Bonfiglio of the Environmental Defense Fund, condemned Zeldin's remarks as promoting disinformation amid increasing climate risks, and the EPA's actions have sparked legal challenges from states and environmental groups.

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Story summary

EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin defended the repeal of the 2009 endangerment finding during a speech to climate change skeptics at the Heartland Institute.
He called the repeal a "moment to celebrate," arguing it would benefit the economy and reduce regulatory burdens.
The decision aligns with the Trump administration's rollback of numerous environmental protections.
On the same day, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reported that March was the warmest on record, raising concerns among environmentalists.
Critics, including Joe Bonfiglio of the Environmental Defense Fund, condemned Zeldin's remarks as promoting disinformation amid increasing climate risks, and the EPA's actions have sparked legal challenges from states and environmental groups.