Gibbs Regulatory Integrity Protection Act Stops EPA Overreach

Washington, D.C.—Congressman Bob Gibbs released the following statement after the passage of H.R. 1732, the Regulatory Integrity Protection Act.

Congressman Gibbs

“Today, we are one step closer to stopping the EPA from implementing its proposed Waters of the United States rule. The Regulatory Integrity Protection Act will uphold the federal-state partnership to regulate the nation’s waters and gives the EPA and the Army Corps of Engineers 30 days to withdraw the current proposed rule.

“The agencies must consult with farmers, ranchers, small business owners, contractors, and homeowners on how to write this rule. By creating a transparent process and working with state and local governments, the EPA and the Corps can go back to the drawing board and craft a rule that will provide clarity on the scope of the Clean Water Act rather than muddy the waters.”

Don Parrish, American Farm Bureau Federation

“The Waters Advocacy Coalition (WAC) is pleased that the House has addressed the EPA’s proposal to expand its Clean Water Act jurisdiction. Today’s passage of H.R. 1732, the Regulatory Integrity Protection Act allows for a rule that both protects the environment and stays within the four corners of the Clean Water Act.

“WAC is grateful the House has hit the regulatory reset button to require the agencies to withdraw the flawed WOTUS proposal. This should be the first important step towards a new proposal - one that includes meaningful stakeholder consultation.

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