1. United States
2. Mass.
3. Letter

The Trump regime’s proposed rollback of environmental protections for commercial rocket launches is highly concerning. Slashing rules meant to safeguard the environment and public during launches could have severe consequences. Eliminating or expediting environmental reviews for launch licenses risks jeopardizing air and water quality, exacerbating noise pollution, disrupting ecosystems and wildlife habitats, and compromising public safety. The draft executive order reveals an alarming effort to prioritize industry interests over environmental stewardship and public wellbeing. Directing the Department of Transportation to reevaluate or rescind sections of the regulations aimed at keeping the public safe is reckless and irresponsible. Equally troubling is the attempt to restrict state authorities from enforcing environmental rules that may conflict with the interests of commercial launch companies. This deregulatory push disregards the mounting evidence of environmental damage caused by increased commercial rocket activity. Recent SpaceX launches have disrupted air traffic, rained debris on beaches and roads, and prompted thousands of public comments citing valid environmental concerns. The proposal to expedite approvals and limit oversight betrays a willful disregard for the public's voice and the government's duty to protect the environment and its citizens. It is imperative that Congress intervenes to uphold environmental laws and prevent this dangerous rollback from materializing. Profits and commercial interests cannot take precedence over the wellbeing of our communities and the preservation of our fragile ecosystems. Congress must compel the EPA and other agencies to maintain robust environmental reviews and regulations that prioritize public and environmental safety over industry expediency. The consequences of inaction could be catastrophic and irreversible.