"In order for the Ombudsman's office to be effective it must be independent," Senator Larry Craig said. "It is critical for Idahoans to be able have full faith in the EPA process as it is unfolding in northern Idaho. Independence of the Ombudsman is the only way we can get there. The Committee must hold a hearing on this legislation as soon as possible in order to move it to the Senate floor, and the President's desk, as quickly as possible."
Senator Mike Crapo said, "Recent events have made it clear that this legislation isnecessary for the communities around the country affected by Superfund designations and other federal environmental actions. The Ombudsman's office must be independent in order to maintain the integrity of any investigations undertaken. I look forward to prompt consideration of S. 606, which would provide for that independence."
"This issue is about accountability and making sure citizens have someone to turn to when they believe there are questions and concerns that are not being addressed," said Senator Wayne Allard (R-CO).
"The EPA Ombudsman is an important watchdog over the actions of the EPA. This legislation gives the ombudsman control of his own office with his own budget so he no longer has to answer to the very people he is supposed to monitor," Senator Grassley said. "We need an independent office that can look out for the needs of citizens as they confront problems with the EPA."
S.606, the Ombudsman Reauthorization Act requires that the Ombudsman report directly to the EPA Administrator rather than another authority within the EPA system.
A full copy of the letter is attached.
April 29, 2002
The Honorable James Jeffords
Chairman
Senate Committee on Environment
and Public Works
410 Dirksen Office Building
Washington D.C. 20510
Dear Mr. Chairman:
We write to strongly urge you to take swift action on S.606, the Ombudsman Reauthorization Act. As a result of recent actions at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) we feel that moving forward with this legislation is now more important than ever.
As I am sure you are aware, the Office of the Ombudsman has played a strong role in a number of cases that have taken place, including investigations in Colorado, Idaho, Missouri, Florida, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. The importance of the Ombudsman's work is evident and assures the public of government accountability.
However, for this Office to remain a strong advocate for constituents it must retain sufficient independence. There are serious questions about whether this is possible if the Ombudsman must answer to authority within the EPA system. By requiring that the Ombudsman report directly to the Administrator we can more fully assure that the work of the Office will be unimpeded by bureaucracy.
This legislation was included in a Committee hearing during the 106th Congress. We would ask that, in light of the importance and timeliness of this issue, it be included in the Committee's next scheduled mark-up. This will clear the way for the next step of taking the legislation to the floor for consideration by the full Senate.
We thank you for the time and the consideration you will give to this request.
Sincerely,