Political Influence Leads to Revised Endangered Species Decisions

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) will revise seven of eight decisions made under the Endangered Species Act program after reviewing them for improper political interference. The four-month review came as a result of a Department of Interior inspector general's investigation of allegations that former Deputy Assistant Secretary for Fish, Wildlife and Parks, Julie A. MacDonald, intimidated staff and changed the scientific information agency scientists developed for decisions about listing or delisting threatened or endangered species.

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Scientific Wrangling over Air Quality Standard for Lead

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is preparing to revise the national standard for airborne lead pollution, but differing scientific opinions among federal officials are further complicating a protracted rulemaking effort. The prevailing interpretation may have a significant impact on the agency's decision to tighten or weaken the standard.

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Snowmobile Plan for Yellowstone Ignores Environmental Impacts

For at least a decade, the limit on snowmobiles in Yellowstone National Park has been the subject of a pitched battle between conservationists and snowmobile advocates. The National Park Service (NPS) has announced a limit on snowmobile use in Yellowstone. As expected, NPS will allow 540 snowmobiles per day, an amount close to double the daily average from the previous winter.

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Testimony on Amending Executive Order 12866

Testimony of Gary Bass, Executive Director of OMB Watch, at the April 26, 2007 House Science and Technology Committee subcommittee on Investigations and Oversight hearing, "Amending Executive Order 12866: Good Governance or Regulatory Usurpation?: Part II"

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Testimony on Amending Executive Order 12866

Testimony of Rick Melberth, OMB Watch Director of Regulatory Policy, at the February 13, 2007 House Science and Technology Committee subcommittee on Investigations and Oversight hearing, "Amending Executive Order 12866: Good Governance or Regulatory Usurpation?"

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OSHA Issues Personal Protective Equipment Rule

Eight years after proposing it, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has finalized a worker safety rule. The final rule mandates employers pay for worker personal protective equipment (PPE). OSHA published the rule in the Federal Register on Nov. 15, and it is to take effect Feb. 13, 2008.

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White House Rejects Krill Protection Rule

The White House has rejected an effort by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to protect krill, an important marine species abundant in the Pacific Ocean. NOAA's proposed rule is a precautionary measure aimed at protecting krill in the future but was rejected by White House officials for failing to identify a need for the regulation.

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Bush Fuel Economy Measure Rejected by Court

A U.S. court of appeals has overturned a recent National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA) rule that revised a national standard for fuel economy. Environmentalists hailed the ruling as a victory and framed it as condemnation of the Bush administration's record on fuel economy and global warming.

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Vice President Reemerging in Regulatory Review Meetings

Representatives from the office of Vice President Richard Cheney have been involved in three current administration rulemakings. Their presence is indicative of a recent trend in which Cheney has involved his office in high-profile regulations.

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