EPA Cancels $20 Billion Green Fund, Cites Fraud Concerns; Plans 65% Budget Cut and Chemical Regulation Changes

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), under Administrator Lee Zeldin, has terminated $20 billion in grants awarded through the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund, a program established under Joe Biden's Inflation Reduction Act. The decision affects eight nonprofit groups, including Climate United, which had been allocated funds to finance clean energy and climate projects. The EPA cited concerns about waste, fraud, and transparency, with Zeldin referencing allegations of misconduct, including ties to Democratic figures like Stacey Abrams. The EPA's actions have drawn criticism from Democratic lawmakers and environmental groups, who argue that the move undermines climate initiatives. Climate United has filed a lawsuit against the EPA, alleging improper freezing of its grant. Citibank, which managed the funds, froze access to Climate United's account in February, citing federal concerns. Zeldin has used the phrase 'gold bars' to describe alleged wasteful spending in the program. The Trump administration's EPA has also announced plans to cut its budget by 65%, focusing on removing 'unnecessary' expenses and redirecting priorities toward American energy production. Additionally, the administration is considering easing safety regulations for existing chemicals, raising concerns among public health advocates. The EPA's shift marks a significant departure from Biden-era environmental policies.