This week, I voted to pass a joint resolution of disapproval under the Congressional Review Act (CRA) on the Biden Administration's flawed and burdensome "Waters of the United States" (WOTUS) rule.
As a third-generation hops and grape farmer, access to clean air and water has always been a priority for me. However, that is not what WOTUS is about. It would give the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) unprecedented control over private land, and this sort of overreach from unelected officials is unacceptable.
Our nation's agricultural industry has successfully self-regulated and innovated over the years, yet this administration is willing to overlook all their hard work. Trampling on private property rights is not the solution.
WOTUS is nothing more than a power grab which would impose more stringent restrictions on landowners. Rural communities in Central Washington and across the country are dedicated to clean water, but they are the ones who are being punished.
While I am disappointed by this administration's dismissal of the valid concerns voiced by our rural communities, I remain committed to fighting for them.
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