1-14 IAT Navigable Waters
Simpson Cosponsors Bill to Curb EPA Water Regulation
Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson today cosponsored legislation to limit the EPA and the Army Corps of Engineers from expanding their regulatory authority over state waters. H.R. 3377, the Defense of Environment and Property Act of 2013, would curb the EPA's efforts to expand its authority under the Clean Water Act by clearly defining "navigable waters." Simpson chairs the House Energy and Water Development Appropriations Subcommittee, which oversees the budget for the Corps of Engineers, and serves on the subcommittee that oversees the EPA budget. Simpson spokesperson Nikki Watts: "This is an issue that hits at the very core of our way of life in Idaho. Water is life, and to let the EPA begin to regulate all waters of the United States would have a devastating impact on rural towns, farmers, and local governments. I've been deeply concerned that the EPA has moved so aggressively to claim jurisdiction over state waters, which is why I've cosponsored this bill. H.R. 3377 provides common sense and needed clarification on this issue so that farmers and ranchers can move forward without fear of the EPA usurping their water rights." The term "navigable waters" has long been the term which limits federal intrusion with regards to the Clean Water Act's authority. However, recent disputes over the definition of "navigable waters" have resulted in efforts by the Obama Administration to amend the current version of the Clean Water Act by replacing the term "navigable waters" with the term "waters of the United States." Non-navigable waters are currently regulated by the states.
