United States Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works
The Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works oversees and legislates environmental protection, resource conservation, and public works in the United States. It handles matters related to air and water pollution, wildlife conservation, flood control, renewable energy, nuclear regulation, waste disposal, public transportation, and infrastructure development.
Jurisdiction and Members
According to Senate Rule XXV, all legislation concerning these areas is referred to the committee. In the 119th Congress, the committee comprises 16 members, equally divided between Democrats and Republicans. Key members include Chairwoman Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and Ranking Member Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV).
History and Notable Chairmen
The committee traces its roots back to 1838 as the Senate Committee on Public Buildings. It has evolved over the years, expanding its jurisdiction to include environmental issues in 1977. Notable former chairmen include Jennings Randolph (D-WV), Daniel Patrick Moynihan (D-NY), Bob Smith (R-NH), Barbara Boxer (D-CA), James Inhofe (R-OK), and John Barrasso (R-WY).
Subcommittees
The committee has four subcommittees that focus on specific areas:
- Subcommittee on Clean Air and Nuclear Safety
- Subcommittee on Chemical Safety, Waste Management, Environmental Justice, and Regulatory Oversight
- Subcommittee on Fisheries, Water, and Wildlife
- Subcommittee on Transportation and Infrastructure
Recent Activities
The committee has played a significant role in shaping environmental policy and infrastructure investments. In recent years, it has addressed issues such as clean energy transitions, climate change mitigation, water quality protection, and transportation infrastructure improvements. Its debates and decisions have often been highly contested due to the polarizing nature of environmental issues.