Trump Admin Wants to Axe Chemical Safety Agency; Congress Revolts

The Trump administration's proposal to eliminate the U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB) by October 2026 has ignited bipartisan outrage. Citing fiscal responsibility and redundancy, the White House aims to shutter the independent agency responsible for investigating industrial chemical accidents and issuing crucial safety recommendations. However, the CSB boasts a strong track record of preventing disasters and influencing policy at agencies like the EPA and OSHA. Its elimination would weaken chemical safety oversight, increase risks to communities near industrial facilities, and hinder environmental justice efforts. While the proposal is part of the budget process and requires congressional approval, the significant bipartisan support for the CSB suggests a fierce fight ahead.