The bill's modifications are intended to limit federal authority over water bodies that are classified as non-navigable under the new definition, thus impacting how water resources are managed and regulated across states. This change means that many natural water features previously considered under federal jurisdiction may now fall into a legal gray area, leading to potential disputes over water rights and state versus federal regulatory power. The bill is anticipated to have a considerable effect on environmental protection efforts and water quality management nationwide.
Summary
House Bill 1556, also known as the Define WOTUS Act, aims to amend the Federal Water Pollution Control Act specifically to redefine the term 'navigable waters.' This redefinition has significant implications for various bodies of water, categorizing them based not only on their physical characteristics but also on their functionality in commerce. Notably, the bill outlines a stricter definition that excludes certain water types, including intermittent and ephemeral waters, which are often critical for ecosystems and local water supplies.
Contention
Critics of HB 1556 express concern that the redefinition of navigable waters could undermine environmental protections and hinder efforts to combat water pollution. They argue that narrowing the scope of federally protected waters may exacerbate water scarcity issues and harm aquatic habitats. Furthermore, the bill has sparked debate over the appropriate balance between state jurisdiction and federal regulatory authority, with opponents stating that it could lead to a patchwork of regulations that undermine comprehensive water management strategies.
Lower Energy Costs Act This bill provides for the exploration, development, importation, and exportation of energy resources (e.g., oil, gas, and minerals). For example, it sets forth provisions to (1) expedite energy projects, (2) eliminate or reduce certain fees related to the development of federal energy resources, and (3) eliminate certain funds that provide incentives to decrease emissions of greenhouse gases. The bill expedites the development, importation, and exportation of energy resources, including by waiving environmental review requirements and other specified requirements under certain environmental laws, eliminating certain restrictions on the import and export of oil and natural gas, prohibiting the President from declaring a moratorium on the use of hydraulic fracturing (a type of process used to extract underground energy resources), directing the Department of the Interior to conduct sales for the leasing of oil and gas resources on federal lands and waters as specified by the bill, and limiting the authority of the President and executive agencies to restrict or delay the development of energy on federal land. In addition, the bill reduces royalties for oil and gas development on federal land and eliminates charges on methane emissions. It also eliminates a variety of funds, such as funds for energy efficiency improvements in buildings as well as the greenhouse gas reduction fund.