SC Nebraska News

Rep. Adrian Smith, Vice Chair of the Congressional Western Caucus, has expressed his views on a recent joint memorandum from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of the Army, Corps of Engineers (USACE). The memorandum addresses the implementation of the Waters of the United States rule, commonly referred to as WOTUS. It outlines a plan for EPA and USACE to work together in gathering stakeholder input for a new WOTUS rule aimed at providing clarity and reducing barriers while ensuring protection for navigable American waters.

In his statement, Rep. Smith remarked, "This is a great step toward putting WOTUS abuse to bed. The EPA has threatened property rights and livelihoods of rural Americans with bureaucratic overreach for far too long." He criticized what he perceives as failures by the Biden administration regarding compliance with a 2023 Supreme Court ruling and lack of public consultation, which he believes have led to ongoing uncertainty.

Smith emphasized that EPA regulations should not impose undue burdens on American farmers, ranchers, and small businesses. He insists these regulations should align with congressional intent within the Clean Water Act.

The memorandum signifies an effort by federal agencies to address concerns related to WOTUS implementation through collaboration and stakeholder engagement.