Jonathon Berman, jonathon.berman@sierraclub.org
Washington, DC -- Today, the Associated Press reported that the cleanup at seven Superfund sites touted by Scott Pruitt was completed before he ever took office. According to AP, records show that construction at all seven sites being promoted by Pruitt was completed years ago. The formal removal of the Superfund sites is a procedural step taken after data shows the site is no longer harmful. Additionally, AP reports that the EPA sought to remove four of the seven sites in 2016.
Donald Trump’s proposed 2018 budget, supported by Scott Pruitt, will slash funding for the Superfund program by 30 percent.
In response, Sierra Club Legislative Director Melinda Pierce released the following statement:
“As Scott Pruitt parades around touting the delisting of Superfund sites, he should remember to say ‘Thanks, Obama’ for their successful remediation and removal from the priorities list. Pruitt has accomplished nothing as EPA administrator other than taking credit for others work while seeking to undermine public health and clean air and water safeguards at every turn.”
About the Sierra Club
The Sierra Club is America’s largest and most influential grassroots environmental organization, with more than 3 million members and supporters. In addition to helping people from all backgrounds explore nature and our outdoor heritage, the Sierra Club works to promote clean energy, safeguard the health of our communities, protect wildlife, and preserve our remaining wild places through grassroots activism, public education, lobbying, and legal action. For more information, visit www.sierraclub.org.