WASHINGTON, D.C. — On Wednesday March 1, 2023, the U.S. Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works held a hearing to consider the nomination of Joseph Goffman to be Assistant Administrator for the Office of Air and Radiation at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Below is the opening statement of Chairman Tom Carper (D-Del.), as prepared for delivery:

“We have gathered here today for a second time to consider Joe Goffman’s nomination to serve as the Environmental Protection Agency’s Assistant Administrator for the Office of Air and Radiation. Joe, we thank you for your previous service to our nation and your willingness to serve us again.

“For those participating in and watching today’s hearing, it may seem a little like we’re living the plot of the movie Groundhog Day. Nine months ago, Mr. Goffman came before the EPW Committee to field questions from our members. While a lot can change in nine months, Joe’s qualifications for this important leadership role, his commitment to fair outcomes, and his nomination’s broad support from stakeholder groups all remain unchanged.

“First, let me speak on Mr. Goffman’s experience and qualifications.

“As I’ve said before, the Assistant Administrator for the Office of Air and Radiation has an outsized impact on our lives. The American people deserve someone serving in this position who is committed to reducing planet-warming climate pollution, while also improving our vehicle emissions standards and protecting public health—all of which go hand-in-hand with economic growth and job creation.

“From the earliest days of his career, when he helped develop the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990 as a staff member on this very committee, to his time at EPA under Presidents Obama, and now Biden, Joe Goffman has dedicated his life’s work to cleaning up the air we breathe and protecting our one and only planet.

“Importantly, he follows the law in a way that also provides the Predictability and certainty that industry wants and needs.

“Joe Goffman is committed to fair outcomes — even if that process takes longer than many of us who support stronger, commonsense clean air regulations would like. Why is that the case? It’s because he cares about doing things the right way and listening to the concerns of all who may be impacted by changes to our nation’s clean air standards.

“And, don’t just take my word for it. Over fifty groups, representing a broad coalition of interests, have voiced their support for Joe Goffman’s nomination to serve as Assistant Administrator.

“As expected, these groups include some of our largest environmental organizations, such as the National Resources Defense Council, the Environmental Defense Fund, the National Wildlife Federation, the Sierra Club, and the League of Conservation Voters—just to name a few.

“It is important to note, however, that a diverse array of industry groups also support Joe Goffman’s nomination—from utility organizations like the Edison Electric Institute to biofuel groups like the Renewable Fuels Association.

“Finally, Joe Goffman’s nomination has the support of some of our nation’s largest labor unions, including the AFL-CIO and the United Steel Workers. Even the United Mine Workers of America, our nation’s largest union of coal miners, have voiced their support for Mr. Goffman’s nomination to lead the Office of Air and Radiation. That does not happen every day and it bears testament to Joe’s character and commitment to doing what is right.

“While much has changed since Mr. Goffman last appeared before this committee nine months ago—including the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act, the growth of clean energy manufacturing jobs in our nation, and the lowest unemployment rate since 1969—the strong and diverse support for his nomination has not wavered.

“President Biden selected Joe Goffman to lead this office because he knows that Mr. Goffman is up to the task. Having worked with Mr. Goffman, I know he is well-prepared for this role and look forward to doing my part to advance his nomination without delay. He has the heart of a public servant, and we look forward to hearing from him today.”

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