The proposed rule rescinds a 2009 declaration known as the “endangerment finding,” which scientifically established that greenhouse gases endanger human lives.

EPA plans to reverse endangerment finding, a foundation of the federal government's ability to address climate change.

Under Zeldin, the EPA announced it would shutter its Office of Research and Development, which provides expertise for environmental policy and regulation, and analyzes the dangers of climate change and pollution. The agency is also expected to shed thousands of employees, including chemists, biologists, and toxicologists.