Gaetz urges EPA to classify water filters as ‘pesticides’.
EXCLUSIVE: Rep. Matt Gaetz Demands Answers from EPA Over Labeling of Water Filtration System as “Pesticide”
Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL) is taking a stand against the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for its decision to classify a major water filtration system as a “pesticide.” This move has sparked a lawsuit filed by Berkey Water Systems, the second-most popular water filtration system in the country, and Gaetz believes it is an attempt to harm the company and an abuse of EPA authority.
Protecting Americans’ Health and Water Quality
In a letter addressed to EPA Administrator Michael Regan, Gaetz emphasizes the importance of promoting the use of water-filtration systems to combat the increasing health concerns and contaminants present in American water sources. He argues that the EPA should be encouraging the use of these systems rather than hindering their progress.
The EPA’s decision would require Berkey and other water filters to display “aggressive warning signs” on their products, creating the false impression that they are hazardous materials.
The Silver Controversy
Berkey’s lawsuit and Gaetz’s letter reveal that the EPA justifies labeling the water filtration system as a “pesticide” due to its use of silver to prevent biological growth within the filters. However, Berkey asserts that the silver does not leach into the water and has been approved by the EPA for such use since the 1990s. In fact, water filtration accounts for 90% of silver’s pesticidal use, according to an EPA fact sheet.
Gaetz strongly opposes the EPA’s classification, stating that water-filter brands incorporating silver are not involved in manufacturing or treating products with pesticides. He urges the EPA to cease its attack on Berkey Water Systems and focus on its primary responsibility of keeping Americans safe.
Seeking Transparency and Accountability
Gaetz demands an explanation from the EPA as to why it has chosen to regulate Berkey systems after 25 years on the market without any issues. He also requests all documents related to the EPA’s decision-making process and clarification on whether the EPA now considers all products containing silver to be classified as pesticides.
Berkey’s effectiveness in removing toxic “forever chemicals” known as PFAS to “non-detectable levels” further highlights the importance of these water filtration systems. The EPA is currently proposing a rule to track and filter out several PFAS contaminants from municipal water sources.
The Washington Examiner has reached out to the EPA for comment.
What are the potential consequences of labeling a water filtration system as a “pesticide” on public health?
Ystems to ensure the health and safety of Americans. He argues that labeling a water filtration system as a “pesticide” not only mischaracterizes its purpose but also undermines the public’s trust in such crucial products.
Gaetz highlights the fact that water filtration systems, like the one produced by Berkey Water Systems, play a vital role in removing contaminants and impurities from drinking water. Access to clean and safe water is a basic necessity for all individuals, and he asserts that any attempt to hinder the use of reliable filtration systems is a direct threat to public health.
Furthermore, Gaetz questions the EPA’s authority to classify a water filtration system as a “pesticide.” He argues that this action exceeds the agency’s jurisdiction and is an abuse of power. The EPA’s primary role is to protect human health and the environment by regulating chemicals and pollutants. Classifying a water filtration system under the label of “pesticide” deviates from its intended purpose and raises concerns about overreach by the EPA.
An Assault on Small Businesses
According to Gaetz, the EPA’s decision to label Berkey Water Systems’ product as a “pesticide” poses a significant threat to small businesses across the country. He outlines how this classification can deter consumers from purchasing and using water filtration systems, leading to financial losses for businesses like Berkey Water Systems.
Gaetz argues that the EPA’s actions are not only detrimental to the water filtration industry but also inhibit innovation and competition in the market. By misclassifying a reputable and widely-used product, the EPA undermines consumer trust and discourages investments in the development of new filtration technologies.
Demanding Accountability from the EPA
In his letter, Gaetz demands answers from EPA Administrator Michael Regan regarding the agency’s decision to label Berkey Water Systems’ product as a ”pesticide.” He requests clarification on the legal basis for this classification and calls for a thorough reevaluation of the decision.
Additionally, Gaetz urges the EPA to consider the potential ramifications of such labeling on public health and small businesses. He emphasizes the need for accountability and transparency in the agency’s decision-making process to restore public confidence and avoid any abuse of power.
Conclusion
Rep. Matt Gaetz’s strong stand against the EPA’s labeling of a major water filtration system as a ”pesticide” highlights the potential consequences this decision may have on public health and small businesses. He calls for the agency to reassess its decision and provide clear justifications for such classification. Gaetz’s demands for accountability and transparency reflect his dedication to protecting Americans’ access to clean and safe water while ensuring the fair treatment of businesses operating in the water filtration industry.
" Conservative News Daily does not always share or support the views and opinions expressed here; they are just those of the writer."
*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases
