EPA’s environmental policies criticized for prioritizing industry over public health | Opinion
Common sense?
I feel a need to respond to Environmental Protection Agency Regional Administrator Jim Macy’s Earth Day message. (April 22, 7A, “EPA’s environmental work drives Kansas City-area ‘comebacks’”) Whenever I hear politicians or political appointees like Mr. Macy say “regulations grounded in both science and common sense,” I know this is nothing more than code for rolling back regulations that protect people.
Is it common sense to eliminate funding to remove lead water lines that are poisoning children? Is it common sense to allow industries to continue to emit levels of toxins that damage peoples’ health?
I also find it ironic that Mr. Macy references successful brownfield redevelopments on Kansas City’s East Side when his EPA recently eliminated the ability of Kansas City, and other communities across the country, to designate neighborhoods adversely impacted by environmental conditions like the East Side in grant applications, thus curtailing future development in these neighborhoods.
- David Doyle, Kansas City
Easter Monday
Many years ago, in the director’s office:
“Sir, I was wondering if I could request a personal day off. Could I please have the Monday after Easter off for my traditional annual day of prayer and meditation, to plan for my spiritual growth and progress as a Christian man for the coming year?”
“Yes, of course, Mr. Taylor. You certainly may have that day off for your personal religious custom. And I‘m sure the fact that it just happens to be the Royals’ home opener has nothing to do with your request.”
- John Taylor, Kansas City
Graves’ replies
Our democracy is under threat by President Donald Trump’s blatantly authoritarian agenda, and Missouri Rep. Sam Graves has shown time and again that he values the president’s approval over his constitutional oath. As one of Graves’ constituents, I have reached out numerous times with concerns about the tariffs, the future of the U.S. Postal Service, the SAVE Act and whatever else seems to be under attack that day.
Rather than a real response, I have received boilerplate emails that are not only dismissive but also seem intent on putting words in my proverbial mouth.
On the post office: “Let me start by saying, I understand and share your frustration with USPS.” I said no such thing about the Postal Service. I emailed him in support of it.
On the passage of the SAVE Act: “I am proud to say that with my help, this bill passed the House of Representatives on April 10, 2025.” My email asked him to oppose this obvious voter-suppression bill. This just adds insult to injury.
I can’t remember the last time Graves hosted a town hall. This isn’t representation. This is condescension. Missouri’s 6th District deserves better.
- Christina Wade, Kansas City
Financial power
April is Financial Literacy Month, a time to spotlight the importance of financial education.
At UMKC’s Henry W. Bloch School of Management, we believe financial literacy helps equip individuals navigate their financial futures. That’s why we’re proud to partner with Bank of America to expand opportunity and accessibility in financial services.
In 2024, the bank’s charitable gift launched our Banking Leaders of Tomorrow program, aimed at students from underbanked areas and first-generation backgrounds. Since launching last August, the program has enrolled 12 first-year students and provided resources, mentorship and training for careers in finance.
One standout student, Evan Salamasina, was the first in the program to pass the Securities Industry Essentials exam — a fundamental step toward a career in the securities industry. His passion for learning is setting an inspiring example for his peers.
Students are also embracing financial planning, with most establishing emergency funds and sharing their knowledge with loved ones, extending the impact beyond the classroom.
This partnership highlights the value of investing in future financial leaders and promoting tools such as the Better Money Habits program. As we celebrate Financial Literacy Month, we remain committed to empowering every student with the knowledge to succeed.
- Jocelyn Evans, Associate dean and the Henry W. Bloch Endowed Chair in Finance, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City
Benefit, cost
Doctors’ visits, tests and medications are undeniably expensive, and copays for care quickly add up. However, copay accumulator policies instituted by insurers are making it harder for patients like mine to access the medications they need by refusing to fully count payment assistance toward a patient’s cost-sharing requirements.
These policies unfairly punish patients who might otherwise be unable to access expensive drugs or may experience delays in care due to affordability concerns. For patients living with chronic diseases such as arthritis and other rheumatic conditions, delays in taking necessary medication can lead to permanent joint damage, disability and overall higher health care costs.
Thankfully, Missouri state representatives are considering House Bills 982 and 840 and Senate Bill 45, which mandate that health insurers and pharmacy benefits managers include any out-of-pocket costs paid by plan enrollees, even those paid on their behalf, when calculating cost-sharing requirements. The rise in medication costs and the resulting adverse impact on patient access are urgent issues. By supporting and passing these bills, lawmakers in Jefferson City can help patients better afford the medications they need.
- Kwas Huston, Kansas City