American Petroleum Institute applauds Pruitt’s changes to scientific advisory boards

The American Petroleum Institute (API) issued a statement Tuesday welcoming Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Scott Pruitt’s recent actions to replace the majority of members on the agency’s scientific advisory board.

“Smart, science-based regulations are essential to our nation meeting its energy and environmental needs well into the future,” API Senior Director for Regulatory and Scientific Affairs Howard Feldman said. “Administrator Pruitt’s actions today advance the administration’s commitment to promoting American energy production, transportation, refining, and use while protecting the environment.”

Pruitt recently said that he would not renew the terms of a majority of members of the EPA’s Board of Scientific Counselors, Science Advisory Board and Clean Air Scientific Advisory Committee and would replace them with new advisors. The agency said it would an “inclusive approach” to choosing new members.

Pruitt also said he would no longer allow scientists who received grant money from the EPA to serve on the boards. Critics have said this move could force independent science out of the EPA.

“We look forward to our continued work with the administration and Congress on promoting a regulatory system, based on sound science and data, that creates American jobs and grows our economy while protecting public health and the environment,” Feldman said.