Statement: Consortium Joins Amicus Brief on Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations Exemption

April 29, 2026

Contact: Savannah Martincic, Manager of Communication, The Medical Society Consortium on Climate and Health smartincic@ms2ch.org

The Medical Society Consortium on Climate and Health has joined with the American Lung Association to file an amicus brief in support of the appellants challenging the Environmental Protection Agency’s exemption of waste emitted from concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs).

As health professionals, we care for patients whose health is directly affected by air pollution, and we are deeply concerned that this exemption would limit access to information necessary to safeguard workers and nearby communities from harmful exposures.

“CAFOs result in the accumulation of toxic gases, such as ammonia and hydrogen sulfide, that are dangerous to humans,” said Dr. Rob Byron, Policy Chair of the Medical Society Consortium on Climate and Health. “The situation is made worse if people and emergency medical services are not made aware of the release, and thus, are unaware and unable to protect themselves or respond in a timely manner.”

The scientific evidence is clear that emissions from CAFOs do not remain contained within facility boundaries and can pose both acute and chronic risks to human health. Exposure to ammonia and hydrogen sulfide has been associated with respiratory illness, neurological impairment, cardiovascular effects, and, in severe cases, death. These risks are particularly pronounced for children, older adults, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions.

“As physicians, we see the health consequences of air pollution every day—and emissions from CAFOs are no exception. The first step in addressing these harms is identifying them,” said Dr. Caitlin Rublee, Chair of the Consortium’s Executive Committee. “Ensuring that emergency notification systems remain in place is essential to protecting the health and safety of workers, first responders, and rural communities.”

Protecting public health requires transparency, preparedness, and adherence to scientific evidence. Maintaining emergency reporting requirements for hazardous emissions is a fundamental component of that protection. Weakening these safeguards would increase the risk of preventable illness, injury, and loss of life. We urge policymakers and the courts to uphold these essential protections to ensure that communities have the information and resources necessary to stay safe.