Neugebauer Criticizes EPA Power Grab

Draft Clean Water Act Rule Dramatically Extends EPA Control

WASHINGTON, DC—Congressman Randy Neugebauer (R-TX) released the following statement today criticizing a draft rule from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that would dramatically expand the agency’s jurisdiction.  The rule redefines what constitutes “waters of the United States” under the Clean Water Act (CWA).

“This is a power-grab, plain and simple,” Neugebauer said.  “The EPA’s role is to ensure the federal government and states are working together efficiently to reduce pollution in our nation’s waterways.  This rule goes far beyond that.  EPA is giving itself permission to regulate anything from runoff ditches to stock ponds.”  

Neugebauer pointed out that this is yet another instance where the EPA has failed to incorporate adequate peer-reviewed science when drafting regulations.   “This is part of a larger pattern at EPA where the agency ignores or obscures data in order to push its regulatory agenda.”

The new rule could place severe limits on farming, ranching, and construction across the country.

“How exactly does it benefit us to have the EPA regulating runoff ditches and livestock tanks?” Neugebauer asked. “And what will it cost Texas ranchers if they have to apply for a federal permit to graze their cattle near a muddy pond?  Americans need jobs and a healthy economy.  The Administration should be focusing on that—not on centralizing more power in Washington.”

Statement from Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack on National Agriculture Day

WASHINGTON, March 25, 2014—Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today released the following statement:

“Today and every day, we celebrate the extraordinary diversity and productivity of American agriculture. Farms and ranches of all forms and all sizes contribute to the safe, healthy, affordable food supply we enjoy in the United States.

Fittingly, Dr. Norman Borlaug is honored today with a statue at the U.S. Capitol, joining an array of American heroes commemorated in the National Statuary Hall. Dr. Borlaug’s statue reflects not only the magnitude of his own achievements, but the power of science to change lives in a positive way.

Dr. Borlaug’s legacy influences our work at USDA to equip the next generation of researchers and agricultural leaders with the sophisticated tools they’ll need to address the challenges of a changing climate and a growing global population.

On this National Agriculture Day, we thank the farmers, ranchers, and others at the heart of American agriculture, an industry that provides for our food and fiber needs, supports one in twelve jobs, and drives our nation’s economy.”