Today, the U.S. Senate approved a resolution overturning the Waters of the U.S. rule that President Biden issued in December. This action, using the Congressional Review Act, is particularly disappointing since final approval would prohibit the federal government from approving a similar rule in the future. The House approved this same resolution earlier.
“This is a reckless vote," said Jared Mott, conservation director at the Izaak Walton League of America. "It rolls back protections for the streams and rivers that provide drinking water for our communities and habitat for fish and wildlife. And it ties the hands of future administrations in terms of the ability to protect our vital waterways. The League is relieved that President Biden has promised to veto this misguided effort and urges the President to sign a veto as quickly as possible."
"Protecting streams and wetlands is in our DNA, and we’re not about to give up this fight,” said Scott Kovarovics, executive director of the Izaak Walton League of America. “The December WOTUS rule follows the law, science and common sense – and must be upheld. Maintaining these protections is essential for hunting and angling, the $800 billion outdoor recreation economy and public health.”
Founded in 1922, the Izaak Walton League of America is one of the most effective conservation organizations in the US with a long legacy of pioneering achievements in policy and law affecting clean water, clean air, wildlife habitat, agriculture and outdoor recreation. www.iwla.org.
Contact: Michael Reinemer, Communications Director, mreinemer@iwla.org, 301-548-0150, ext. 220