Let's create a shadow EPA

[Yavin4]

Okay, so Trump and the Republicans want to effectively shut down the EPA? Fine. Here's how we should respond:

1. Create our own private EPA composed of top scientists.
2. We can perform our own tests of the environment for infractions
3. We'll also have lawyers on staff to sue corporate polluters
4. We'll work with those states that have their own EPAs.

Nothing can stop progress and science.

[Tommy_Carcetti]

1. Can we have shadow funding, too? nt

[Yavin4]

2. The funding can be in the light of day. n/t

[MineralMan]

3. The thing is that the EPA could create binding regulations, and

your shadow EPA can't. That's the problem, along with its budget, of course.

But, then, Trump seems to have pulled the EPA's teeth already, anyhow.

[Yavin4]

4. So, instead of regulations, it will file lawsuits for damaging the environment

In some ways, lawsuits can be more effective than regulations.

[MineralMan]

5. The problem with that is legal standing to sue.

In many cases, that can be hard to establish. You'll find some information here:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Standing_(law)#United_States