Research & Developments is a blog for brief updates to provide context for news regarding law and policy changes that impact science and scientists today. If you have a tip, email us at [email protected].
EPA Proposes Removal of Carbon Dioxide Limits on Power Plants
On 11 June, the Environmental Protection Agency announced a proposal to repeal federal limits on power plant carbon emissions, including a Biden-era rule requiring power plants to control 90% of…
NOAA’s Climate Website May Soon Shut Down
Climate.gov, NOAA’s portal to the work of their Climate Program Office, will likely soon shut down as most of the staff charged with maintaining it were fired on 31 May.
Tracking Science Policy Across the U.S. Administration
The new administration has taken an array of decisive actions with far-reaching consequences for Earth and space scientists. Use our new tool to help sort them out.
Trump Withdraws Nomination for NASA Administrator
In a move that worried politicians and space scientists alike, President Trump announced on 31 May that he will withdraw his nomination of Jared Isaacman for the position of NASA…
Supreme Court Rejects Tribal Appeal to Halt Planned Copper Mine
On 27 May, the United States Supreme Court declined to hear arguments from a group of Apache leaders challenging a copper mine that would damage land that tribe members consider…
House Passes Megabill Slashing Environmental Protections
Early on 22 May, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a massive GOP-backed bill that seeks to push forward President Trump’s domestic policy agenda. Within the bill’s 1082 pages are…
Government Will Reduce Access to COVID-19 Vaccine
Officials from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced on Tuesday that only adults older than 65 and people with specific medical conditions will…
EPA to Rescind Rules on Four Forever Chemicals
The EPA plans to reconsider drinking water limits for four different PFAS chemicals and extend deadlines for public water systems to comply, according to…
Trump Blocks Funding for EPA Science Division
The Trump administration has blocked funding for the EPA’s Office of Research and Development (ORD), the agency’s main science division.