Zeldin Unveils New Chemical Restrictions on New Year's Eve On December 31 2025, EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin announced limits on five widely used chemicals found in building materials, plastics, and adhesives, marking a rare pro‑health shift for the agency [1]. The rule targets specific phthalates and other additives, aiming to reduce occupational exposure while leaving many consumer‑product applications untouched [1]. Zeldin framed the action as a “MAHA win,” linking it directly to the Make America Healthy Again coalition’s agenda [1].

MAHA Movement Gains Direct Influence Inside EPA Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who leads the MAHA coalition, has reshaped federal health‑environment policy, rolling back vaccine guidance and altering positions on seed oils, fluoride, and acetaminophen [1]. EPA staff now join weekly MAHA Action calls and are drafting a health‑focused agenda that includes lead‑pipe removal, PFAS cleanup, plastic waste reduction, food‑quality standards, and Superfund site remediation [1]. The partnership signals a coordinated push to embed activist health priorities into EPA regulatory work [1].

Activist Engagement Triggers Dialogue After Petition Environmental activist Kelly Ryerson filed a petition demanding Zeldin’s removal over EPA pesticide approvals, then met the administrator at a MAHA Christmas event in December 2025 [1]. Ryerson spent an hour at EPA headquarters afterward, opening ongoing talks with Zeldin’s deputies and securing a direct line for future concerns [1]. This encounter illustrates how grassroots pressure is translating into formal EPA‑MAHA communication channels [1].

Hiring Controversy Highlights Potential Conflict Between Deregulation and Health Goals The EPA’s recent hires include former officials from the American Chemistry Council and a lobbyist from a soybean‑association, prompting critics to warn of a clash between the agency’s pro‑growth staffing and MAHA’s health‑centric objectives [1]. Observers note that these appointments could dilute the impact of the new chemical limits and other health‑focused initiatives [1]. The controversy underscores tension within the administration over balancing industry interests and public health mandates [1].

Limited Phthalate Rule Draws Criticism for Narrow Scope Zeldin’s announcement restricts certain phthalates only in workplace settings, leaving thousands of consumer products containing the chemicals unregulated [1]. Activists argue the measure is insufficient and may serve as a performative gesture rather than a substantive protection for the public [1]. The criticism reflects broader skepticism about the depth of the EPA’s commitment to comprehensive chemical safety [1].