WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen (both D-Md.) today released the following statement after the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced it was planning to fully reinstate funding for the Bay Journal newspaper, which the agency had revoked in August 2017 — one year into a five-year funding commitment.
Senators Cardin and Van Hollen, both members of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, had objected to the EPA decision to revoke funding and discussed the matter with EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt during hearings and in-person meetings.
“The Bay Journal is a unique, highly trusted publication that serves an essential function in the Chesapeake Bay restoration effort. While I do not believe its funding should ever have been threatened, I appreciate the EPA’s willingness to re-evaluate its decision and correct its course,” said Senator Cardin. “Improving the health of the Chesapeake Bay requires a multitude of agencies and people working together, and today’s decision helps return a measure of momentum to that effort.”
“Today’s move by the EPA reverses a misguided decision to revoke funding for an institution that has helped contribute to the health and success of the Chesapeake Bay,” said Senator Van Hollen, also a member of the Interior Appropriations Subcommittee. “We made our concerns clear to EPA Director Pruitt, and I appreciate that he heard them. The Bay Journal has done outstanding work for years, and I look forward to that work continuing for years to come. Together, we will keep fighting for the resources and support that the Bay needs.”