The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has reportedly instructed its staff in the Midwest, an area historically burdened with pollution, to refrain from enforcing violations against fossil fuel companies. This directive, conveyed verbally to astonished staff, aligns with an overarching push within the EPA to relax scrutiny on the industry. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin, under President Donald Trump’s directive to reduce regulatory burdens on the oil and gas sector, has been actively rolling back climate and pollution regulations instituted during the Biden administration.

The EPA’s actions, which include scaling back enforcement activities even before formal policy changes are enacted, mark a significant departure from past administrations. Sources within the agency have noted a noticeable shift in enforcement dynamics, with a particular emphasis on easing regulations related to fossil fuel emissions.

Despite assurances from an EPA spokesperson that inspections and enforcement in the energy and oil and gas sectors continue, reports suggest a reluctance to issue violation notices or pursue cases against companies suspected of pollution. This pause on enforcement has raised concerns among industry experts, with former EPA officials warning that granting leniency to law-breaking companies could exacerbate environmental issues and compromise public health.

Amidst these developments, the Justice Department’s Environmental and Natural Resources Division has faced staffing reductions, impacting its ability to handle environmental enforcement cases effectively. The shift in priorities towards defending the fossil fuel industry has sparked criticism and raised questions about the enforcement of crucial environmental regulations.