Clean Water Current

EPA announced last week that it was extending the comment deadline for public input on the Agency’s decision to repeal the 2015 Clean Water Rule.  The regulation, also known as the “waters of the United States” rule, was intended to clarify jurisdictional waters under the Clean Water Act but was met with significant controversy.  President Trump ordered a replacement of the rule earlier this year, and EPA announced that it would follow a two-step process to first repeal the existing rule and then replace it with a new regulation.  EPA’s proposal to repeal the rule was published in the Federal Register on July 27, and the new extension sets a deadline of September 27 for public comment on the proposed repeal.

NACWA previously provided input to EPA on important considerations for a new jurisdictional rule, and will continue to stay closely engaged with the Agency as it develops a new regulatory approach.