Senator Murkowski Questions EPA Admin on Contaminated Lands and PFAS in Alaska

Contaminated Lands in Alaska

• 📌 Senator Murkowski highlighted the issue of contaminated lands on Alaskan Native settlement lands, which were conveyed by the federal government in a tainted state.
• 💡 The EPA is seen as uniquely qualified to help solve this problem, with approximately $20 million directed to contaminated lands over the past couple of years.
• ⚠️ Despite good progress, $20 million is insufficient for even the first project cleanup, emphasizing the high cost of remediation.
• ✅ The Senator stressed that addressing these contaminated lands is a government obligation and liability, whether to Alaskan Natives or others.

PFAS Contamination and EPA's Response

• 🎯 The EPA Administrator discussed the agency's commitment to tackling PFAS contamination across various programs, including advancing research, preventing entry into drinking water, and holding polluters accountable.
• 💰 The announcement regarding PFAS actions has been factored into the EPA's skinny budget request and operating plan.
• 🤝 The Administrator affirmed that if Congress appropriates funds, the EPA will ensure they are spent as obligated under the law.

EPA Staffing and Mission Fulfillment

• 👥 The EPA is adding people to the Office of Water to bolster efforts on PFAS, with reorganization announcements reflecting this boost.
• 🚫 Concerns were raised about potential impacts of staff reductions or deferred resignations on the EPA's ability to execute its mission, including on PFAS and contaminated lands.
• 💯 The Administrator stated that the EPA will fulfill all statutory obligations, noting that many employees were not previously working on such obligations.
• 🏢 Reforms include ending COVID remote work to encourage in-person collaboration and productivity among EPA employees.
• ✨ The EPA is filled with amazing, dedicated workers who believe in the agency's mission and are committed to making the public proud.