Pollute as much as you want, just don't tell us you're doing it

Whenever there is a choice between corporate interests and the public welfare, the public loses:

WASHINGTON -- The Bush administration yesterday exempted thousands of companies from providing detailed information about the toxic chemicals they release into the air and water and onto the land, easing the reporting requirements under the nation's premier environmental right-to-know law.

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The move brought an immediate negative reaction from Capitol Hill, with two New Jersey lawmakers pledging to legislatively overturn the new rule next year.

Sen. Frank Lautenberg (D-N.J.) said the EPA's decision "puts the interests of corporate polluters ahead of the health and safety of the American people." Rep. Frank Pallone (D-6th Dist.) called the change a "step backwards" because it "limits information that community residents can receive about chemicals near their homes."

The rule change was opposed by public health and environmental organizations and government agencies in 23 states. It had the backing of the chemical, electronics, petroleum and plastic industries as well as fabricated metal facilities, foam manufacturers, food processors and utilities.