Environmental Group Files FOIA Request on EPA Transition Plans

Last Friday, the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) filed a wide-ranging FOIA (Freedom of Information Act) request to access all of the new Administration’s data related to an EPA restructuring, possible program reduction/elimination, and/or decrease in staffing.
The request includes a statement that, “Multiple media reports suggest that major staffing and organizational changes are under consideration for the Agency. The public’s ability to influence any such changes, including by expressing their views to the Agency or their elected representatives, will be severely diminished once the finalization or execution of those changes has commenced.”  Much of their concern appears to be focused on issues related to climate change and air programs.
At this point, it remains unclear whether FOIA requirements apply to the Trump Administration’s transition staff.