Lawmakers: EPA security chief improperly runs firm

Washington – Democratic lawmakers say Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Scott Pruitt’s security chief has been operating an outside consulting firm without proper approval from ethics officials.

EPA special agent Pasquale “Nino” Perrotta was tapped by Pruitt last year to lead his 20-member personal protective detail. He’s also the top executive at a Maryland-based security firm.

Perrotta got clearance in March 2013 for limited non-government consulting work but was required to get an updated approval if job duties changed. Perrotta got a significant promotion and pay raise last year.

The 2013 approval, which was in effect for a 5-year period that expired last month, also barred Perrotta from using his government position to advance his personal interests. One of Perrotta’s business associates won a 2017 contract to sweep Pruitt’s office for listening devices.