Press Statement  MassDEP and DPH Joint Statement on the Trump Administration's Decision to Eliminate the Endangerment Finding

BOSTON — The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) and the Department of Public Health (DPH) release the following joint statement responding to the Trump Administration’s decision to eliminate the endangerment finding — the rule that says greenhouse gases are harmful to public health and the environment:

“By rolling back the endangerment finding, the Trump Administration is dismantling one of the most important tools we have to protect public health. We cannot ignore the simple fact that vehicle pollution is bad for people, bad for our environment and bad for our economy. Massachusetts communities are grappling with devastating floods, our farms are struggling with unpredictable weather, and our cities are burdened by scorching hot summers. Massachusetts has strong environmental protections, and we have made significant progress in improving our air quality. The Trump Administration’s decision will disrupt and challenge our progress to address climate change and protect our communities. Seniors, children, and those with asthma will bear the brunt of increased pollution. Here in Massachusetts, we remain committed to reducing asthma and improving air quality across the state. We will continue to follow science, fight for cleaner air, and make sure all Massachusetts residents are safe and healthy.” 

Bonnie Heiple, Commissioner of Environmental Protection
Robbie Goldstein, MD, PhD, Commissioner of Public Health