October 6, 2014

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers have extended the comment period for a proposed rule to clarify “waters of the United States” as defined under the Clean Water Act.

According to the EPA, the new rule aims to reduce confusion about which waters are protected under the Clean Water Act and increases the speed and efficiency of the permitting process. Critics are concerned the rule constitutes regulatory overreach.

This is the second time the EPA has extended the comment period after industry representatives and stakeholders requested more time to review and comment on the rule. Stakeholders will also be able to review and comment on a peer review report from the EPA Science Advisory Board about the connectivity of streams and wetlands.

Comments must be submitted by November 14, 2014.

Sources: E&E News, Environmental Protection Agency, Federal Register