MAHA is shaping U.S. environmental rules

EPA chief Lee Zeldin announced restrictions on five chemicals, and supporters of the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) movement have been meeting with the agency after previously influencing federal health policy.

On New Year's Eve, EPA leader Lee Zeldin announced restrictions on five chemicals and described the move as a "MAHA win." The announcement comes as supporters of the Make America Healthy Again movement, which has influenced recent federal health policy, seek greater input on environmental rules. Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s role as health secretary and changes to vaccine guidance and other health positions have been cited as part of MAHA's earlier policy influence. With an agency pledge to release a "MAHA agenda" in the coming months, activists and officials are watching how those discussions will shape regulatory choices. Key developments: - Lee Zeldin announced new restrictions on five chemicals commonly used in building materials, plastic products and adhesives and called the action a "MAHA win." - The MAHA movement, with high-profile backing from Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has been credited in the reporting with influencing federal health policy, including changes to vaccine recommendations and positions on seed oils, fluoride and Tylenol. - Activists have shifted from criticism to engagement with EPA officials; Kelly Ryerson and others who once petitioned for Zeldin's removal later met with him and his deputies after a December gathering. - Ryerson and some MAHA supporters criticized EPA approval of two new pesticides, describing them as containing "forever chemicals," a characterization the EPA has disputed. - Some activists say the agency's response and any MAHA agenda could affect the administration's political coalition as midterm elections approach. Summary: The MAHA movement has moved from shaping health policy to seeking influence over EPA rulemaking, and the agency has indicated it will release a "MAHA agenda" in the coming months. Observers and activists say the outcome may influence the administration's political coalition ahead of the midterm elections.