EPA Administrator Michael Regan announces resignation as Trump administration prepares to take office, with Jane Nishida set to step in as Acting Administrator and Lee Zeldin nominated as potential successor.
At a Glance
- EPA Administrator Michael Regan to resign on December 31, 2023
- Jane Nishida to serve as Acting EPA Administrator
- Lee Zeldin nominated by President-elect Trump to lead EPA
- Regan’s tenure focused on environmental justice and climate change
- Potential policy shifts expected under new administration
Regan’s Departure and Legacy
Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan has announced his resignation, effective December 31, 2023. Regan, who made history as the first Black man to lead the EPA, focused his tenure on environmental justice, climate change, and pollution reduction. His departure comes as the Trump administration prepares to take office, signaling potential shifts in environmental policy.
During his time at the EPA, Regan conducted a “Journey to Justice” tour in 2021 to highlight pollution-affected minority communities. He also oversaw significant climate regulations, including curbing pollution at power plants and oil and gas wells, and reducing automobile emissions. These efforts may face challenges under the incoming administration.
EPA head Michael Regan, who championed environmental justice, to leave office Dec. 31. In letter to staff, he cites EPA's work to confront climate change, restrict air & water pollution & spend tens of billions of dollars spur clean energy development. https://t.co/9GaYQNezA9
— Matthew Daly (@MatthewDalyWDC) December 20, 2024
Accomplishments and Praise
Regan’s tenure saw notable progress in various environmental areas. The EPA made strides in removing lead pipes, protecting drinking water, and addressing PFAS chemicals. The agency also reinvigorated enforcement efforts and banned dangerous chemicals like asbestos and TCE.
“It’s no secret that he had a very tough job as Administrator. But from the moment he was confirmed by the Senate, Michael took quick action to restore the agency,” Democratic Sen. Tom Carper of Delaware said.
Carper also praised Regan for restoring morale, emphasizing science and enforcement at the EPA, and leading the agency to allocate substantial funds from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act. Regan’s efforts to restore staffing levels and scientific integrity at the EPA after reductions during the previous Trump administration were also noted.
Transition and Future Outlook
As Regan prepares to depart, Jane Nishida will assume the role of Acting EPA Administrator. Meanwhile, President-elect Trump has nominated former New York Representative Lee Zeldin to lead the agency, suggesting a potential rollback of environmental regulations implemented during Regan’s tenure.
“Today, I am writing to let you know that my last day as your Administrator will be Dec. 31,” Michael Regan told EPA staff.
While Regan expressed pride in the EPA’s efforts over the past four years to address climate change and pollution, the incoming administration’s plans to reduce environmental regulations may lead to significant policy shifts. This transition marks a crucial moment for environmental policy in the United States, with potential long-term implications for climate change initiatives and environmental protection efforts.
