Document NBKND7mEEGmDpRa9K6LzXXxV

Statement of William L. Wehrum Nominated to Be Assistant Administrator, Office of Air and Radiation U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Chairman Barrasso, Ranking Member Carper, and members of the Committee, thank you for the opportunity to appear before you today as the nominee for the position of Assistant Administrator for the Office of Air and Radiation at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. I am honored that President Trump nominated me for this position. As you may know, I previously was nominated in 2005 by President Bush for this position. Under Senator Inhofe's leadership, this Committee approved of my nomination at that time. I appreciate the opportunity to appear before you again. President Trump and Administrator Pruitt have set a clear agenda that I intend to implement if confirmed to this position. The President has issued Executive Orders that will eliminate needless and burdensome regulations, simplify and streamline compliance obligations, and strike a better balance between the twin goals of protecting human health and the environment and promoting the economic vitality of the Nation. Administrator Pruitt emphasized three key objectives in his remarks to this Committee during his confirmation hearing. First, we are a Nation of laws. Tie explained that "EPA's role is to administer those laws faithfully" and that the Agency should avoid the temptation to "bootstrap its own powers and tools through rulemaking." Second, Administrator Pruitt committed that the Agency would acknowledge, respect, and promote the critical role of the states in implementing Federal environmental laws and in protecting human health and the environment. "Cooperative federalism" is one of the cornerstones of the Clean Air Act. In the very first section of the Act, Congress declares that "air Sierra Club v. EPA 18cv3472 NDCA - 1Tier 1 ED 002061 00152991-00001 pollution control at its source is the primary responsibility of States and local governments." Administrator Pruitt's commitment to state involvement carries out Congress's stated intent. Third, Administrator Pruitt emphasized the important role that the public plays in the regulatory process. He said that "it is critical to me that EPA also truly listen to the diverse views of the American people, and learn from them." He rightly stated that "[w]e can simultaneously pursue the mutual goals of environmental protection and economic growth," but cautioned that "that can only happen if EPA listens - listens to the views of all interested stakeholders." These are the goals and objectives that have been established by our leadership. I concur in them and, if confirmed, will do all I can to achieve them. Mr. Chairman and members of the Committee, thank you again for the opportunity to appear before you. I am happy to answer any questions that you may have. Sierra Club v. EPA 18cv3472 NDCA 2 - - Tier 1 ED 002061 00152991-00002