From Industry to E.P.A.: Lobbyist Now Oversees Pesticide Rules

In a move that has raised eyebrows among environmental advocates and critics of the chemical industry, Kyle Kunkler, a former lobbyist for a major agricultural company, has taken on a key role at the Environmental Protection Agency (E.P.A.). His new position puts him in charge of overseeing regulations for pesticides, including a highly restricted weed killer that his former employer had aggressively promoted.

As a lobbyist, Kunkler had championed the use of the weed killer, which has been linked to potential harm to plants and wildlife when it drifts to nearby land. The chemical, known for its widespread use in agriculture, has been a contentious issue due to concerns over its environmental impact. Despite these concerns, Kunkler’s former employer had pushed for its continued use, arguing that it was essential for managing weeds and maintaining crop yields.

Now, as part of the E.P.A. team, Kunkler finds himself on the opposite side of the debate. The E.P.A. has proposed allowing the continued use of the weed killer, sparking fears among environmentalists that the agency may be watering down its regulatory stance. Critics argue that Kunkler’s background as a lobbyist for the chemical industry could influence his decisions and compromise the E.P.A.’s commitment to protecting public health and the environment.

The appointment has reignited concerns about the revolving door between government agencies and the industries they regulate. Environmental advocates and some lawmakers have questioned whether Kunkler’s past ties to the chemical industry could impact his impartiality in shaping pesticide policies. In response, the E.P.A. has emphasized that Kunkler, like all employees, is expected to adhere to strict ethics guidelines and recuse himself from decisions where a conflict of interest might exist.

However, for many, Kunkler’s transition from lobbyist to regulator raises fundamental questions about the ability of regulatory agencies to act independently in the face of industry pressure. As the debate over pesticide regulations continues, all eyes are on Kunkler and his role in shaping the E.P.A.’s policies on some of the nation’s most widely used chemicals.