Republicans warn EPA plan would give feds ‘free reign’ to regulate almost all waterways

Republican lawmakers warned Wednesday that a complex EPA proposal in the works would give the federal government “free reign” to regulate virtually any waterway or wetland in the country.

 

In a rare joint House-Senate hearing, EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy was called to explain the plan, which has prompted complaints from farmers and agriculture groups, as well as local environmental officials who worry the EPA is claiming authority that should be left to the states.

 

House transportation committee chairman Rep. Bill Shuster, R-Pa., said that if the policy takes effect, “It will open the door for the federal government to regulate just about any place where water collects.”

 

Shuster claimed the proposal would “trample the rights” of state governments and hurt the middle class by driving up prices through additional regulation.

 

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