U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and 15 other Senate Democrats have taken a stand against a proposed rule that could have devastating effects on the nation’s water supply. In a letter addressed to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Army Corps of Engineers, the senators have strongly rebuked the proposed rule, arguing that it ignores science and poses a threat to the drinking water of millions of Americans.
The proposed rule, titled “Navigable Waters Protection Rule,” seeks to redefine which bodies of water are protected under the Clean Water Act. It would remove federal protections for many streams, wetlands, and other bodies of water, leaving them vulnerable to pollution and destruction. This move has been met with widespread criticism from environmentalists and lawmakers alike.
In their letter, Senator Gillibrand and her colleagues expressed their concerns about the potential consequences of this rule. They highlighted the fact that the proposed rule ignores scientific evidence and would have a detrimental impact on the health and well-being of communities across the country.
The senators also pointed out that the proposed rule would undermine the Clean Water Act, which has been a cornerstone of environmental protection for decades. They emphasized that the Act has successfully protected the nation’s water resources and has played a crucial role in ensuring access to clean and safe drinking water for millions of Americans.
Furthermore, the senators highlighted the potential economic impact of the proposed rule. They noted that clean water is essential for various industries, including agriculture, tourism, and recreation. By weakening federal water protections, the proposed rule could harm these industries and the communities that rely on them.
The letter also called for a thorough and transparent review process for the proposed rule. The senators urged the EPA and Army Corps of Engineers to consider the input of experts and stakeholders and to base their decision on sound science and evidence.
Senator Gillibrand and her colleagues have made it clear that they will not stand by and allow the proposed rule to go unchallenged. They have vowed to use all available resources to fight against this dangerous and ill-advised rule.
Their efforts have already gained support from various environmental organizations, including the Natural Resources Defense Council and the Sierra Club. These groups have praised the senators for their leadership and commitment to protecting the nation’s water resources.
The proposed rule has also faced opposition from other lawmakers, with 22 state attorneys general sending a letter to the EPA and Army Corps of Engineers expressing their concerns. This widespread opposition highlights the gravity of the situation and the urgent need for action.
In conclusion, Senator Gillibrand and her colleagues have taken a bold and necessary step in standing up against the proposed rule that would limit federal water protections. Their letter serves as a powerful reminder that the health and well-being of our communities and our environment should never be compromised for the sake of political agendas. We can only hope that the EPA and Army Corps of Engineers will heed their call and make the right decision for the sake of our nation’s water resources.
