EPA’s Local Government Advisory Committee Reaches Majority Female Membership
The LGAC just added 16 new appointments to its roster.
- By Robert Yaniz Jr.
- Jan 11, 2024
For the first time in its history, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)’s Local Government Advisory Committee (LGAC) has achieved a majority female membership.
According to the EPA’s announcement, the LGAC has made 16 new appointments and 13 reappointments, a total of 24 women and 13 men. This also includes 13 people of color and representatives from 27 different states. Selections were made from a pool of over 60 candidates, focusing on a balanced representation of geographic location, gender, ethnicity and perspectives.
“The Biden-Harris Administration has made a commitment to advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility across the federal government,” EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan said in a statement. “Today’s announcement is the latest example of this commitment in action. In addition to a majority of female members, this important committee is comprised of individuals from across the country, representing the diversity of America, so we can reflect a range of input as we craft regulations impacting their communities.”
Lincoln, Nebraska Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird will retain her position as the LGAC chair, with Mayor Lucy Vinis of Eugene, Oregon, serving as vice-chair. Additionally, Mayor Katie Rosenberg of Wausau, Wisconsin, will co-chair the LGAC’s Small Communities Advisory Subcommittee (SCAS) with Ann Mallek, Supervisor of Albemarle County, Virginia.
A pivotal body for guiding EPA policies, the LGAC will focus on a number of key initiatives in 2024, such as the proposed Lead and Copper Rule Improvements, the draft Strategy for Reducing Plastic Pollution, and enhancing community-level communication on climate change.
About the Author
Robert Yaniz Jr. is the Content Editor for Environmental Protection.