WRONG!
The original intent of the law (as sold by Congress) was to identify threats to the physical and biological environment resulting from proposed projects that crossed state lines. Fact finding only, presumably real science. No law or rule making authority was intended!
The results of their findings would be dealt with by elected (and presumably accountable) representatives in Congress.
How it changed into the new Environmental SS remains a mystery to me to this day. Dereliction of Congressional obligation is the briefest (and kindest) way I can put it.
Interesting information, would like to see a picture of an original document with that info.
Then why weren’t they named the Environmental Investigation Agency? Protection implies some kind of action.