EPA stacks chemical advisory panel with industry, for-hire scientists

By Ellie Borst | 07/20/2026 01:40 PM EDT

Toxicologists from Tesla, Lyondell Chemical and a notorious figure from Trump’s first term are among EPA’s newest expert chemical advisers.

EPA headquarters building

EPA headquarters in Washington on July 9. Francis Chung/POLITICO

Industry and consulting firm scientists now make up the majority on EPA’s panel of outside chemical advisers.

EPA earlier this month announced its 23-member slate for the Science Advisory Committee on Chemicals, a group of independent experts appointed by Administrator Lee Zeldin that offers advice on chemical risk evaluations under the Toxic Substances Control Act.

More than half of the 23 currently work or previously worked for a for-profit, corporate interest.

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“These members also bring diverse professional backgrounds — from state and federal government and public health to academia, industry, and other sectors — ensuring a well-rounded, balanced scientific review,” EPA said in a statement announcing the new members.

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