On 20th January, President Obama vetoed the bipartisan congressional resolution, S.J.Res 22, which formally denounced the WOTUS rule. The President disagrees with Congress when it comes to the controversial rule, which would dramatically expand EPA jurisdiction under the guise of protecting waters.
“The move did not come as a surprise. The President made it clear months ago that he supports the EPA in this jurisdictional grab, and would certainly refuse to sign the bipartisan measure of disapproval,” said Pam Whitted, NSSGA senior vice president of legislative and regulatory affairs. “We were heartened that Congress agreed with the 32 states and the dozens of trade associations, including NSSGA, that have sued over this rule. We will be following this litigation closely over the next few years.”
It is expected that the Senate will vote to override the veto this week, although the measure is not expected to surpass a 67-vote threshold for approval.
A nationwide stay of WOTUS remains in effect and a hearing later this spring will determine which courts have jurisdiction of the case.
Adapted from press release by Rebecca Bowden