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Text only of letters sent from the Committee on Energy and Commerce Democrats

October 20, 2003

 

Ms. Marianne Lamont Horinko
Acting Administrator
Environmental Protection Agency
1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20460-0001

Dear Acting Administrator Horinko:

We remain very troubled by the recent reports raising questions about EPA's apparent acquiescence in downplaying concerns about environmental and health risks at and near Ground Zero in New York City. Because the majority party in the House of Representatives has chosen not to investigate this matter, Representatives Nadler, Owens, and Eshoo wrote to you on October 14, 2003, seeking relevant information under the Freedom of Information Act (see attached letter).

We agree that all of the requested materials should be given to the elected representatives of those harmed by EPA's alleged knuckling under to political pressure. And the material should be made available to the public, as well. But, we ask that you release this information now -- not just under the Freedom of Information Act (which could take months and which could limit the material provided), but under a common sense need to get the truth out. Hiding behind the "head-in-the-sand" refusal of Republicans in Congress to ask even the most basic questions or to seek the most basic information will not serve the public interest. New Yorkers, and the responders from around the country who came to their aid, deserve better.

Sincerely,

JOHN D. DINGELL             
RANKING MEMBER
COMMITTEE ON ENERGY AND COMMERCE 

HENRY A. WAXMAN
RANKING MEMBER
COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT REFORM

JOHN CONYERS
RANKING MEMBER
COMMITTEE ON THE JUDICIARY

GEORGE MILLER
RANKING MEMBER
COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION AND
THE WORKFORCE

Attachment (pdf)

 

Prepared by the Committee on Energy and Commerce
2125 Rayburn House Office Building, Washington, DC 20515