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Below is the information that you can send out to everyone about HR 1422. Thank you for all your help!
EPA Science Advisory Board Reform Act of 2013 (H.R. 1422)
What is the EPA's Science Advisory Board (SAB)?
· The SAB was established by Congress in 1978 to provide balanced and independent reviews of the science conducted and used by the EPA in setting and enforcing regulations.
· The Board consists of 51 members appointed by the EPA Administrator. Board members were intended to be experts in their respective scientific fields.
· The SAB provides a mechanism for the Agency to receive peer review and other advice designed to make a positive difference in the production and use of science at EPA.
Problems with the Science Advisory Board
· Private sector industry expertise on SAB panels is virtually non-existent. Despite statutory requirements that membership "be fairly balanced in terms of the points of view represented," only 3 members are from industry. These members are routinely dismissed from SAB panels.
· Sixty percent of the members of SAB's standing scientific advisory panels have directly received EPA Research grants since 2000.
· Many panel members have publically stated strong policy preferences in areas they are being asked to provide impartial scientific reviews.
· Public participation is limited during most SAB meetings, and virtually no ability exists for interested parties to comment on the scope of SAB reviews.
How H.R. 1422 Fixes the Problems
· H.R. 1422 strengthens public participation by facilitating meaningful participation and comment opportunities in the advisory process.
· H.R. 1422 improves the process for selecting expert advisors by providing clarity for the SAB member selection to ensure a more balanced panel of experts.
· H.R. 1422 expands transparency and disclosure requirements.
· H.R. 1422 limits non-scientific policy advice, while requiring explicit disclosure if SAB feels compelled to provide such policy advice.
Cam Madsen
Legislative Assistant
Office of Congressman Stewart
Main: (202) 225-9730
Nathaniel Johnson
Executive Assistant
Office of Congressman Chris Stewart (UT-2)
323 Cannon HOB | Washington, DC 20515
