EPA Science Advisers Defend Industry Ties, Despite Democrat Doubts

Two of EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt’s newest science advisers are defending their industry ties, as Senate Democrats question their ability to serve the agency.

Democrats on the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee are examining concerns raised about Tony Cox Jr. and S. Stanley Young, two new appointees on the Environmental Protection Agency’s Science Advisory Board. Environmental groups and academics claimed the two have conflicts of interest and aren’t qualified to serve, but board members said their past work contributes to their expertise.

Young told Bloomberg Environment that his work with companies, including pharmaceutical giants GlaxoSmithKline and Eli ...