MI SR0147

Calls on the EPA and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to withdraw their proposed rule that expands the definition of "waters of the United States" under the Clean Water Act.

States the proposed rule would increase federal jurisdiction by 3 percent, potentially requiring 1,400 additional permits and imposing nearly $220 million in costs on farmers, businesses, and homeowners.

Argues the proposed rule creates uncertainty rather than clarity through ambiguous new technical definitions that will lead to increased litigation and delay economic development.

Contends the EPA and Army Corps bypassed required scientific review by moving forward before the primary scientific report completed peer review by the EPA's Science Advisory Board.

Maintains the proposed rule infringes on state authority to regulate state waters and limits Michigan's ability to implement innovative voluntary environmental programs like the Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program (MAEAP).