McCarthy Suggests Dropping Controversial CWA Permit Waivers For Farms

摘要

Facing mounting criticism from many quarters, EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy says the agency is open to dropping the administration's controversial interpretive rule that seeks to exempt dozens of agricultural practices from Clean Water Act (CWA) dredge-and-fill permit requirements and is working with critics on an alternative approach. "Is the interpretive rule the best way to do that? Let's figure that out together," she told the Agricultural Business Council of Kansas City, MO, in a highly touted July 10 speech. "I am about outcomes, not process," she said. Relevant documents are available on InsideEPA.com. See page 2 for details. (Doc. ID: 2476577) McCarthy's comments appear to go beyond remarks she made July 8 previewing her speech, which focused heavily on the administration's related proposed rule clarifying the reach of the CWA, though she acknowledged "legitimate" concerns with the interpretive rule.