Via regulations.gov: Docket ID No. EPA-HQ-OA-2018-0259
RE: Strengthening Transparency in Regulatory Science – Comment Deadline Extension Request
Dear. Mr. Sinks:
On behalf of the states, we write to request a 60-day extension to the comment period for the Strengthening Transparency in Regulatory Science Proposed Rule 83 FR 18768 (April 30, 2018).
The stated intent of the proposed rule is to strengthen regulatory transparency associated with the science the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) uses for regulatory decision making and to ensure the data and models underlying rules are publicly available in a manner sufficient for independent validation and analysis.
Increased transparency is a worthy goal that can enhance agency deliberations and the regulatory process. More co-regulatory discussions regarding the intent, scope, and implementation processes associated with this rule will improve the quality of the comments the agency receives. Extending the comment period would allow those discussions to occur.
As our state associations and individual states prepare our comments, we require adequate time to thoughtfully evaluate the likely effect of the proposed rule and assess the scope, potential consequences of the rule, and the manner in which it may impact and/or alter state programs, decisions, and actions.
Given the critical importance of this regulatory action, we respectfully submit that a 60-day extension on the comment period is necessary so that state environmental programs can provide the agency with thoughtful and well reasoned comments on the proposal. This extension is essential to EPA’s evaluation of state impacts, and will contribute to an enhanced and improved final rule.
Thank you and we look forward to the Agency’s response to this request. Should you have questions regarding this request, please contact Julia Anastasio, (janastasio@acwa-us.org, 202-756-0600) or any of the signatories below.
Sincerely,
Julia Anastasio, Executive Director & General Counsel Association of Clean Water Administrators
Sam Sankarm, Executive Director
Environmental Council of the States, Alan Roberson
Executive Director, Association of State Drinking Water Administrators
Dania Rodriguez, Executive Director Association of State and Territorial Solid Waste Management Officials
Jeanne Christie, Executive Director Association of State Wetland Managers
Jason E. SloanExecutive Director Association of Air Pollution Control Agencies
Scott Pattison, CEO and Executive Director National Governors Association
