Epa Arrives

The green may finally have risen to the top. Buying the argument that the move would give the U.S. more clout in debates with environmental ministers from other countries, the Senate voted to elevate the Environmental Protection Agency to Cabinet level. The measure was sent to the House, where it died last year because of objections to a Republican amendment requiring government compensation to property owners affected by environmental restrictions. This year the controversial amendment was dropped, improving the odds significantly, though it’s still not a sure shot.