North Carolina environmental secretary steps down before term ends

Elizabeth Biser, who served as North Carolina's environmental secretary for over three years, is stepping down to pursue private sector opportunities. Her departure comes before the end of Governor Roy Cooper's second term, and she will be succeeded by Mary Penny Kelley, an experienced state government administrator and attorney. Kelley has previously held significant roles within the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) and is currently a special adviser to the governor's Hometown Strong program, which focuses on rural development. During her tenure, Biser was instrumental in implementing policies aimed at reducing harmful 'forever chemicals' known as PFAS in North Carolina's water sources. Her leadership was marked by efforts to address the health risks associated with these chemicals, which have been linked to various health issues. However, Biser expressed frustration with the Environmental Management Commission's reluctance to advance proposed regulations to limit industrial discharges of PFAS into drinking water. Biser's resignation has raised questions about the continuity of environmental policies in the state, especially as Cooper, a Democrat, is term-limited and will leave office at the end of the year. Kelley’s appointment is seen as a strategic move to ensure that the DEQ continues to prioritize air and water protection, leveraging her extensive background in environmental law and previous experience within the agency. Governor Cooper acknowledged Biser's contributions to environmental leadership in North Carolina and expressed confidence in Kelley’s ability to lead the department effectively. It remains uncertain whether Kelley will undergo a Senate confirmation process before Cooper's term concludes.