Secret Science Reform Act of 2015

Bill 114 s 544, also known as the Secret Science Reform Act of 2015, was introduced in the US Congress with the aim of increasing transparency and accountability in the regulatory process. The bill sought to prohibit the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from proposing, finalizing, or disseminating regulations or assessments based on science that is not transparent or reproducible.

The bill specifically targeted the use of "secret science" by the EPA, which refers to scientific studies or data that are not publicly available for independent verification. Supporters of the bill argued that transparency in the regulatory process is essential for ensuring that regulations are based on sound science and are not influenced by hidden agendas.

Opponents of the bill, however, raised concerns that it could hinder the EPA's ability to protect public health and the environment by limiting the agency's access to important scientific research. They also argued that the bill could be used to undermine regulations that are supported by strong scientific evidence. Ultimately, the Secret Science Reform Act of 2015 did not pass in Congress and did not become law. However, the debate surrounding the bill highlighted the ongoing tension between the need for transparency in the regulatory process and the importance of relying on robust scientific evidence to inform policy decisions.