The proposed rule rescinds a 2009 declaration known as the “endangerment finding,” which scientifically established that greenhouse gases endanger human lives.

Under Zeldin, the EPA announced it would shutter its Office of Research and Development, which provides expertise for environmental policy and regulation, and analyzes the dangers of climate change and pollution. The agency is also expected to shed thousands of employees, including chemists, biologists, and toxicologists.

The agency proposes to overturn the 2009 “endangerment finding,” which underpins nationwide greenhouse gas emission limits on vehicles and power plants.