WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senate Western Caucus Chair Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) released the following statement today regarding the Environmental Protection Agency’s steps to add clarity to the federal government’s definition of Waters of the United States (WOTUS).
“I am thrilled to learn that sanity has returned to the EPA,” said Lummis. “Today’s announcement by the agency outlines a path toward a sensible WOTUS definition that will provide clarity to Wyoming landowners in line with congressional intent and the Supreme Court’s ruling in West Virginia v. EPA. I applaud Administrator Zeldin for his efforts to reduce the federal government’s footprint in what should be state and local jurisdiction.”
“We want clean water for all Americans supported by clear and consistent rules for all states, farmers, and small businesses,” said EPA Administrator Zeldin. “The previous Administration’s definition of ‘waters of the United States’ placed unfair burdens on the American people and drove up the cost of doing business. Our goal is to protect America’s water resources consistent with the law of the land while empowering American farmers, landowners, entrepreneurs, and families to help Power the Great American Comeback.”
Background:
Earlier today, the EPA announced the agency will work with the United States Army Corps of Engineers to deliver on President’s Trump’s promise to review the definition of “waters of the United States.” The agencies will move quickly to ensure that a revised definition follows the law, reduces red-tape, cuts overall permitting costs, and lowers the cost of doing business in communities across the country while protecting the nation’s navigable waters from pollution.
The definition of “waters of the United States” guides Clean Water Act implementation, including whether farmers, landowners, and businesses must secure costly permits before they can pursue a project. To date, EPA has failed to follow the law and implement the Supreme Court’s clear holding in the Sackett case.
It is critical that Americans know which waters are subject to federal jurisdiction under the Clean Water Act to grow our economy and lower costs for American families while protecting human health and the environment.
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