WATCHING WASHINGTON BROWNER'S VIEWS ON ENVIRONMENT

Carol Browner, the Environmental Protection Agency administrator designee, did what she could last week to assuage industry's fears about the "greener" Clinton administration. But Browner, head of Florida's Environmental Regulatory Department, also was careful to disclose very little about changes she has in mind for EPA. Browner's Senate environment committee confirmation hearing was rather typical. As is the practice, Browner visited at length beforehand with each senator so any

Jan. 19, 1993

2 min read

Carol Browner, the Environmental Protection Agency administrator designee, did what she could last week to assuage industry's fears about the "greener" Clinton administration.

But Browner, head of Florida's Environmental Regulatory Department, also was careful to disclose very little about changes she has in mind for EPA.

CONFIRMATION HEARING

Browner's Senate environment committee confirmation hearing was rather typical. As is the practice, Browner visited at length beforehand with each senator so any tough questions could be answered in private.

In the public questions, senators mostly outlined their views on environmental issues, with a few "softball" questions thrown in. Browner deftly dodged harder questions, such as the administration's position on a carbon tax or wetlands permitting.

Browner said, "I hope my tenure will mark a new era in communication between the EPA and America's business community, between environmentalists and , business people.

"The adversarial relationship that exists ignores the real complexities of environmental and business problems, creates damaging delays in the regulatory process, and often unnecessarily harms business without significantly aiding the environment.

"My experience in Florida convinced me there are several steps that might easily be taken to ease the regulatory burden on businesses with little or no effect on environmental protection.

"EPA must deliver quick, consistent decisions. We must recognize the special problems of small businesses. EPA should spend more time listening to the particular concerns of businesses and communities affected by environmental problems, and EPA must recognize the value of state regulators.

"EPA should promote, encourage, and develop rewards for businesses that develop pollution prevention and recycling strategies.

"During the past 2 years, I have spearheaded an effort to cut the number of agencies involved in the permit process, cutting down on required paperwork. I believe the future of environmental protection lies in creating incentives for businesses to prevent pollution."

ENVIRONMENTAL ALARMISTS

In response to one senator's question, Browner denied her appointment means environmental "alarmists" will have more influence on policy. "If you look at my record in Florida, I have not been dictated to or driven by the alarmists."

Sen. John Chafee (R.-R.I.) offered Browner a bit of advice: "Please avoid the word balance. It always makes me nervous. Somehow it suggests the scales have tipped too far toward protecting the environment."