Newsom appointed a close ally to this state board. Environmental groups say he has a conflict of interest

Environmental groups are demanding the resignation of Rhys Williams from California's Board of Environmental Safety, citing a conflict of interest. Williams was appointed by Governor Newsom to the board in January, but CalMatters reports he recently joined the lobbying firm Axiom Advisors, representing clients including Clean Harbors, a hazardous waste management company, and GKN Aerospace, the company linked to a chemical incident that evacuated thousands of Orange County residents in May. The board decides appeals on permits for hazardous waste facilities. Governor Newsom's office says Williams is qualified, has committed to recusing himself from matters involving his lobbying clients, and that his appointment is lawful. Legal experts agree. Environmental advocates, however, worry that his recent work in the toxic waste industry undermines public trust in the board's ability to impartially protect communities from environmental harm.

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