What agency was created by Congress in 1970 to enforce laws aimed at protecting the environment and health?

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was established by Congress in 1970 with the primary objective of enforcing laws designed to protect the environment and public health. This agency was created in response to the growing concerns over pollution and environmental degradation during the late 1960s and early 1970s, as highlighted by events such as the publication of Rachel Carson's "Silent Spring" and the increasing visibility of environmental movements. The EPA consolidates various federal research, monitoring, standard-setting, and enforcement activities into one agency to ensure a unified approach to environmental protection.

The roles of other agencies listed differ significantly from the EPA's focus. For instance, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is responsible for regulating food safety, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is dedicated to ensuring safe and healthy working conditions for workers by enforcing standards and providing outreach. Meanwhile, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) focuses on biomedical and public health research. Each agency serves a distinct purpose, but the creation of the EPA specifically addressed the need for a dedicated authority on environmental regulations and health protections.