The Waters of the United States rule gives the EPA new authority to regulate pollution in streams and wetlands, but there has already been significant pushback . . .

''While the Irrigation Association supports the original intent and goals of the Clean Water Act, we remain concerned with how the new rule could negatively affect the use and value of agricultural land and will continue to monitor how expanded federal authority granted under this rule affects our industry"?(R)?. The Irrigation Association is supporting S. 1140, the Federal Water Quality Protection Act.'' – Elizabeth McCartney, IA Sr. Policy and Advocacy Manager

''NPMA is closely monitoring, analyzing and working with industry coalitions and federal and state agencies to better interpret the new definition of WOTUS and to ensure that the current permitting system, which has a minimal impact on PMPs, remains the same.'' – NPMA official statement

''The only way to change the new requirements is through congressional action. On May 12, the House passed legislation (H.R. 1732) to require the agencies to withdraw the rule and work with stakeholders to develop a new rule. The Senate Environment and Public Works Committee held a hearing on similar legislation (S. 1140) May 19.'' – landscapeprofessionals.com


On June 23, the Senate introduced the DRIVE Act, which calls for $275 billion in highway spending over the next 6 years. While no comments on the act were available at time of writing, most associations support a long-term funding solution . . .

''The ready mixed concrete industry supports a fully funded, minimum 5-year surface transportation bill. New, comprehensive surface transportation network maintenance and growth investments should center on fostering and ensuring safety, economic growth, prosperity, mobility, environmental responsibility and international competitiveness.'' – NRMCAVoice.com

''There is ample documented evidence that shows infrastructure investment is critical for long-term economic growth, increasing productivity, employment, household income, and exports"?(R)?. Conversely, without prioritizing our nation's infrastructure needs, deteriorating conditions can produce a severe drag on the overall economy.'' - John Cox, president

''We hope that by setting a short-fuse July deadline, Congress will avoid another lull into complacency, and they will truly feel the urgency and have the resolve to properly fix the backbone of our nation's economy.'' - Robert D. Stevens, PhD, PE, president