A proposed rule to define “Waters of the U.S.” subject to additional regulation under the Clean Water Act was criticized as an unprecedented power grab at a field hearing conducted by House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. Concerns about impacts to storm water systems, farming, mining, and energy production were discussed in the Pennsylvania hearing and have been echoed by national groups. A hearing before the full committee is scheduled for May 8, 2014 in Washington, D.C., including a witness from the National Association of Counties. The rule is proposed by EPA and the Army Corps of Engineers, and the public has until July 21 to submit comments.
For additional information, please contact RCRC Regulatory Affairs Advocate Staci Heaton at (916) 447-4806 orsheaton@rcrcnet.org.