The National Stone, Sand & Gravel Association (NSSGA) has expressed its support of the US Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) decision to propose a replacement of the "deeply flawed" 2015 Waters of the US Rule (WOTUS).
The NSSGA opposed the 2015 WOTUS rule as it would have allowed the federal government to regulate waters that have little or no connection to flowing rivers via comments, testimony, support for congressional action and litigation.
Michael W. Johnson, president and CEO NSSGA, says: “We are pleased that EPA listened as NSSGA advocated that dry streambeds and isolated waters should not be federally regulated under the Clean Water Act.
Johnson emphasises that the NSSGA strongly supports the administration’s effort to improve rules, such as WOTUS, that have had a direct impact on the availability and costs of materials needed for vital infrastructure projects.
“NSSGA members work diligently to protect the environment, but they need regulatory clarity to do so. We are preparing comments on this rule and look forward to continued work with the administration to refine burdensome regulations,” Johnson adds.
The comment period does not start until its publication in the federal register but is expected to be at least 60 days.
Members can find out more on WOTUS developments via the Environmental Subcommittee meetings, calls and emails, or by visiting the EPA’s WOTUS website.
