OABA signs coalition letter expressing concerns about proposed changes to Clean Water Act

Ohio AgriBusiness Association was one of many groups that signed a letter expressing concerns about proposed changes to the Clean Water Act that could expand the federal jurisdiction of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Corps of Engineers.

The two agencies have proposed changes to the Clean Water Act that could eventually allow them to regulate many of the nation's waterways and lands. The agriculture community, along with hundreds of lawmakers, have said the proposed rule bypasses Congress and ignores U.S. Supreme Court rulings. If passed, the rule could require CWA permits for everyday activities such as fertilizer and pesticide spraying, according to various reports.

The Waters Advocacy Coalition letter was sent to the chair and ranking member of the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee, which has scheduled a June 11 meeting on the potential impact of the proposed rule.

“If EPA is allowed to continue in this manner, and indeed to expand its authority over more land, it will have a devastating impact on U.S. investment and job creation, as companies will not be able to rely on the rule of law in the United States and will not invest in U.S. projects,” according to the letter. 

Click here to read the entire letter.