Remember when the EPA handed down a decision barring California and 16 other states from setting their own standards for carbon dioxide emissions from automobiles back in December? Now Henry Waxman, chair of the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, has directed the EPA to provide uncensored copies of recommendations that staffers made to EPA administrator Stephen Johnson. When asked previously to turn over documents, EPA handed in heavily redacted copies and claimed that they are protected under attorney-client privilege. Meanwhile, Barbara Boxer, head of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, has also demanded that the EPA provide similar records as well as correspondence with the White House, and set a deadline for this Friday.
According most accounts, the recommendations of the EPA's professional staff were ignored, largely on political grounds. The majority of EPA staffers overwhelmingly believe the waiver should be granted. Johnson, of course, maintains that the decision to bar California from setting higher standards was made for sound reasons and not simply the Bush administration's contempt for science. Unfortunately, none of Johnson's reasons for rejecting California's request are supported by the facts.
But here's what's more interesting: While vying for the support of California voters, the Republican candidates – presumptive nominee John McCain included -- made sure to pander to the state on this issue. But is McCain anywhere to be seen on this matter in Congress? Not a chance.
--Kate Sheppard
