Press Releases

Contact: Abby Mitch 

Congressman John James voted against the Biden administration’s burdensome “Waters of the United States” (WOTUS) rule yesterday. The Biden administration is reverting to ambiguous Obama-era Environmental Protection Agency guidelines, which expand the federal government’s definition of “navigable water” and impact agriculture, small businesses, manufacturing, and private citizens.  

“Americans are already suffering from two years of economic crises and increased government bureaucracy, but the Biden administration is only doubling down,” said James. “The new WOTUS rules will make it harder for American farmers and ranchers to earn their livelihoods and, by extension, feed America and keep our economy going. As a congressman, I am focused on being a good steward of our natural resources while rolling back regulations that suffocate hardworking families. Americans need government to get out of the way; they’ll do the rest.” 

In 2020, the Trump administration issued the “Navigable Waters Protection Rule” (NWPR) which reined in federal regulatory power and clarified what can be considered a WOTUS. The Biden administration’s rule would undue this change, opening the door to sweeping regulations. Recent polling found that Americans believe government itself is the biggest problem facing the country.  

Rep. James is the only Michigan Republican serving on the prestigious Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. He also serves on the Water Resources and Environment subcommittee.  

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