Federal agencies were created to oversee specific areas or aspects of the government's responsibility to its citizens. Federal agencies also do specific jobs that the government has promised to perform. As the role of government and the needs of people and society have changed, new agencies have been established.
You will choose one federal agency to discuss in an informative essay. You should do outside research and write an essay on the structure of the agency and its function.
One federal agency that has played a crucial role in protecting the environment and public health in the United States is the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Established in 1970 by President Richard Nixon, the EPA's primary mission is to safeguard human health and the environment by enforcing regulations passed by Congress.
The EPA is structured into various offices and regions across the country, each focusing on specific aspects of environmental protection. The agency is led by an Administrator appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate. The Administrator is responsible for overseeing the agency's operations, implementing and enforcing environmental regulations, and working with other government agencies, state governments, and stakeholders to address environmental issues.
One of the key functions of the EPA is to develop and enforce regulations to protect air and water quality, reduce pollution, and mitigate the effects of climate change. The agency is responsible for setting national ambient air quality standards, regulating emissions from vehicles and industrial sources, and overseeing the cleanup of hazardous waste sites under the Superfund program. The EPA also works to ensure the safety of drinking water and regulate the use of pesticides to protect human health and ecosystems.
In addition to regulatory oversight, the EPA plays a crucial role in conducting research, providing technical assistance to state and local governments, and educating the public about environmental issues. The agency also works closely with businesses and industries to promote voluntary pollution prevention initiatives and sustainable practices.
Overall, the EPA's work is essential in protecting the environment and public health in the United States. Through its regulatory efforts, enforcement actions, and outreach programs, the agency helps to ensure that all Americans have access to clean air, safe water, and a healthy environment for generations to come.