Career Staffer New EPA Administrator
 Earlier this month, Stephen L. Johnson was officially sworn into office as the new administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Johnson, who had been serving as the agency’s acting administrator since the start of this year, is the 11th administrator in the department’s 35-year history. He is also a 24-year veteran of the agency, and the first career staff member to lead it.
Johnson cited as his goals promoting and maintaining the use of sound science while taking collaborative, innovative approaches to solving environmental problems. In a statement to EPA employees, he said that he will “encourage EPA to fully integrate innovation, flexibility and collaboration at the local, state, national and international levels” and that “environmental success and economic growth can go hand-in-hand.” NAHB staff members have had the opportunity to work with Johnson on several occasions, and they expect to continue to work with him and his staff on issues such as wetlands regulation and storm water enforcement efforts. The EPA implements and enforces the nation’s federal environmental laws and regulations, with more than 18,000 employees nationwide and an annual budget of $8.6 billion. | 
