EPA Chief's Bold Move: Seeking to Reclaim $20 Billion in Green Grants

The EPA's new head, Lee Zeldin, plans to rescind $20 billion in climate and clean-energy grants. This action targets the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund, known as the green bank, supported under the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act. Critics call it a political stunt, while supporters argue for its legal legitimacy.

In a significant policy shift, the new head of the Environmental Protection Agency, Lee Zeldin, has announced plans to rescind $20 billion in grants allocated by the Biden administration for climate and clean-energy projects.

Zeldin revealed in a video posted on X that the EPA intends to revoke contracts for a nascent 'green bank,' slated to support numerous projects combating climate change and promoting environmental justice. This initiative, noted as the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund, is part of the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act.

The program has stirred controversy, with Republicans labeling it a 'slush fund' lacking in accountability. Legal challenges are anticipated from clean energy advocates, who argue that Zeldin's move undermines investments in sustainability and may contravene constitutional provisions.

(With inputs from agencies.)