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Senate looks to clarify WOTUS

A nonbinding resolution in the Senate could indicate a little more clarity for the EPA’s proposed Waters of the U.S. rule. On a 59 to 40 vote, Senators said the rules do not apply to puddles, irrigation ditches and wastewater systems.  All Republicans, five Democrats and Independent Angus King voted in support of the measure.  Senator Ted Cruz was absent but it is assumed he would have voted in favor.  That would give any such binding language a filibuster-proof 60 votes.

American Farm Bureau president Bob Stallman welcomed the vote stating: “The Senate action amplifies the spirit our farmers and ranchers have conveyed over the past year of the need to ditch the egregious WOTUS rule.”