Press Releases

YORK, PA – U.S. Representative Scott Perry (PA-4) joined his colleagues on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee at a field hearing in Altoona, Pennsylvania this week to review a proposed rule from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that could dramatically extend the federal government's authority to regulate ponds, ditches, and other wet areas. 

Enacted in 1972, the Clean Water Act (CWA) claimed jurisdiction over the nation's “navigable waters,” which are defined as “the waters of the United States, including the territorial seas”. This proposed rule seeks to “clarify” which bodies of water are subject to federal jurisdiction under the CWA. Constituents have raised strong concerns with Rep. Perry about this proposed rule's potential for adverse impacts to residents and businesses in the 4^th District.

“We can find common sense ways to protect our environment and waterways without unnecessarily expanding the reach of the federal government,” said Rep. Perry.  “Government regulations cost the average American family more than $15,000 each year and I'm concerned this proposal will just add to those costs.”

This proposal is not new. Previous legislative attempts to expand these regulations were halted with strong bipartisan opposition in Congress. Twice, the Supreme Court also reaffirmed that there are limits to federal jurisdiction under the Clean Water Act. The proposed regulation could also duplicate existing environmental oversight by states, thereby wasting taxpayer dollars.

During the hearing, Rep. Perry questioned the potential scope of this new regulation, noting that all ephemeral and intermittent streams, and the wetlands that are connected or next to them, will be subject to federal oversight under the proposed rule. He expressed concern that everyday business or private activity that create temporary ditches and other small wet areas could now fall under federal jurisdiction. 

Continued oversight of this proposal will help protect our waters without unreasonable and burdensome regulations on our businesses, farmers, and families. Rep. Perry has regularly confronted excessive government regulations that act as barriers to stronger private sector growth and job creation. For example, the House-approved REINS Act (H.R. 367) requires an up-or-down vote in Congress on any major new regulation with an economic cost of $100 million or more.

Residents are welcomed to contact Congressman Perry and his staff at any of his offices, or via Perry.House.Gov, where they can sign up for e-mail updates and for his new Facebook, Twitter and You Tube pages.