Duval Times

Republican Senators Rick Scott, Eric Schmitt, and several of their colleagues have raised concerns over the proposed Biden administration Environmental, Social, Governance (ESG) rule for federal contractors. In a letter addressed to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, General Services Administrator Robin Carnahan, and NASA Administrator Bill Nelson, the senators expressed their reservations about the potential impacts of the Contractor Climate Rule.

According to the senators, the proposed rule would divert agencies' attention from crucial national security tasks and space exploration. Senator Rick Scott stated, “The Federal Supplier Climate Risks and Resilience Rule would be a disaster, severely distracting your agencies from critical tasks of securing our nation from foreign adversaries and of exploring our universe." The senators emphasized that the administration should not use procurement policy to advance its environmental justice goals.

The letter also highlighted concerns about the mandatory disclosure of greenhouse gas emissions and climate-related financial risks for certain federal contractors. Senator Eric Schmitt pointed out, “Public procurement objectives should ensure the government can acquire high-quality goods quickly and cheaply. Instead of being distracted by bureaucratic rules and regulations, your agencies should be focused on shooting missiles and shooting stars."

In response to these concerns, the senators demanded answers regarding the potential impacts of the rule on defense industrial base expansion, the Artemis mission delays, contractor participation in future opportunities, and the legal authorization for the rule. They warned that if the agencies proceed with the Contractor Climate Rule, Congress may resort to introducing a resolution of disapproval under the Congressional Review Act.

The letter concluded with a call for transparency and accountability from the agencies involved in implementing the ESG rule. The senators underscored their commitment to preventing what they perceive as a radical ESG policy that could harm defense and space industrial bases.

The full text of the letter can be accessed for further details on the senators' inquiries and concerns.