WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Sam Graves (MO-06), House Small Business Committee Chairman, today welcomed the Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers decision to seek greater public input on the dangerous and costly proposed “Waters of the United States” rule. As requested by Graves, the EPA will extend the comment period that would expand its reach and jurisdiction to include small streams, ditches, and ponds, some of which may contain little or no water.
“The decision to seek more input is a step in the right direction, but it would be wiser to withdraw the rule, step back, and thoroughly weigh the costs and consequences for everyday Missourians. I speak with small businesses, farmers, and property owners who are deeply concerned that a bigger and more controlling government will cause higher costs, longer delays, and bigger headaches,” said Congressman Graves. “With a district that includes the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers, I understand the importance of safeguarding our nation’s waters through a common sense approach. Washington bureaucrats have no business in our backyards and fields.”
BACKGROUND
At today’s Transportation subcommittee hearing, Graves asked the EPA and the Corps, both of whom testified at the hearing, to withdraw their rule. Graves provided the EPA with specific examples of how the rule would hurt small businesses and farmers in North Missouri.
Recently, Graves conducted a May 29 hearing on how the EPA rule would impact the Sixth District, which included testimony from former Blue Springs mayor, Tom Woods.
Graves also formed a coalition to ask the EPA to halt its ideological agenda and urge greater cooperation with America’s small businesses and farmers.
Previously, Graves sought local insight on EPA aggression taking place in Platte County.