Proposed EPA cuts put us all at risk

Cutting funding for the EPA would have an adverse effect on programs that ensure the quality of air and water.

In September 2017, Congress will decide on a budget that sets the tone for the fiscal year of 2018.

The current administration’s budget proposal cuts the Environmental Protection Agency by 31 percent, more than any other federal agency.

The cuts would impact funding for important Pennsylvanian programs such as the revitalization of brownfields and also monitoring capabilities that keep the air clear and the water clean.

Several Pennsylvanian politicians have already expressed displeasure with the proposed budget cuts to the EPA, citing the need to keep the surrounding environment beautiful and free from contaminants.

There is also concern for the adverse effects on public health that will come as a result of underfunded programs that ensure the quality of our air and water.

Representatives Costello (R-6th District) and Representative Meehan (R-7th District) are two critics that not only oppose the proposed budget, but also disagree with pulling out of the Paris Climate Agreement.

Both representatives are members of the Climate Solutions Caucus yet despite their best efforts on Capitol Hill progress is, in typical fashion, challenging.

The newest study on climate change led by Adrian Raftery reports that, “there is only a 5 percent chance that the Earth will avoid warming by at least 2 degrees come the end of the century.”

After this point the effects of climate change are irreversible, painting a dire picture for our future.

The public health risks are already mounting as tick counts are on the rise as a product of increasing temperatures in Pennsylvania, which led the nation for three straight years in Lyme Disease cases according to the state’s own department of health.

This is certainly an issue in more rural counties.

Another Pennsylvanian Department of Health report found that lifetime asthma prevalence among adults is not only increasing, but as 2012 and 2013 was the highest in the United States.

These public health risks will continue to mount and grow as many politicians walk their party lines rather than looking at environmental issues through an objective lens.

The EPA plays a crucial role in monitoring air and water quality, which in turn mitigate the risks of high tick counts and toxins in the air that can cause asthma.

The upcoming budget debate and vote in September has a key part to play in the lives of all US citizens, especially us here in Pennsylvania.

Brad Rosen Villanova