Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, Republicans

H.R. 2421, introduced by Chairman Oberstar, represents an unprecedented and historic federal jurisdiction grab.  Proponents of the bill claim the bill simply restores the original scope of the Clean Water Act.  While protecting the nation's precious water resources is a goal shared by all, as written, H.R. 2421 could in fact lead to the regulation of every wet area in the country, preempt state and local governments from making many local water and land use decisions, result in endless litigation, and adversely impact the nation's economy. 

• For a list of entities opposing H.R. 2421, click here.
• For a summary of stakeholder concerns with H.R. 2421, click here.
• For a side-by-side comparison of language in H.R. 2421 and the current agency regulations, click here.
• For a document addressing some of the myths versus realities surrounding the debate about H.R. 2421, click here.

Press Releases:

• April 18, 2008: Inhofe, Mica United Against Federal Land Grab Legislation
• April 16, 2008: Unprecedented Federal Jurisdiction Grab Could Lead to Regulation of Every Wet Area in the Country
• October 18, 2007: Redefining Wetlands Could Open Jurisdictional Pandora’s Box
• July 17, 2007: Clean Water Bill May Lead to Massive Expansion of Federal Jurisdiction Say Committee GOP Leaders

Committee Hearings:

• April 16, 2008: The Clean Water Restoration Act of 2007
• July 17, 2007: Status of the Nation’s Waters, including Wetlands, Under the Jurisdiction of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act
• July 19, 2007: Status of the Nation’s Waters, including Wetlands, Under the Jurisdiction of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, Part II
• October 18, 2007: The 35th Anniversary of the Clean Water Act: Successes and Future Challenges