EPA scientists in 2010 were ready to declare that even small amounts of hexavalent chromium -- found in the drinking water of some 70 million Americans -- may cause cancer. But the American Chemistry Council, the main industry lobby group, urged delay. EPA did delay, on the recommendation of a science panel that was supposed to be independent -- but was secretly stacked with panelists tied to the industry. In fact, they had helped industry oppose hexavalent chromium lawsuits instigated by Erin Brocovich. The incident raises huge questions about the transparency of EPA science, and even whether the agency's scientific integrity policy is working at all.

David Heath and Ronnie Green report for the Center for Pubic Integrity February 13, 2013. [2]