OSHKOSH, WI – Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, made these remarks on the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) finalization of the “Waters of the United States” rule.

“I am disappointed that the EPA has finalized its controversial 'Waters of the United States' rule.  This rule is the latest example of executive overreach that could harm Wisconsin farmers and businesses with increased permitting costs and undue litigation.  Under the rule, the EPA has expanded its authority over smaller bodies of water like wetlands, ponds and lakes that were previously not subject to federal regulation.

“As chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, I have sent multiple letters to the EPA emphasizing the rule’s burdensome impact on Wisconsin manufactures and farmers.  I have requested information relating to the EPA’s considerations in writing the rule as well as documents pertaining to the EPA’s consultation with state and local governments.  The EPA’s reluctance so far to provide the relevant information and documentation underscores this administration’s lack of transparency and disregard for congressional oversight.  Stakeholders in Wisconsin and around the country deserve to know how this ‘water’ rule will affect their day-to-day business operations without fear of drowning in permitting and litigation costs.”  

Links to Chairman Johnson’s letters to the EPA regarding the “Waters of the United States” rule can be found below.

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