East Idaho Times

Idaho Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch have expressed approval following an announcement by U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin. The EPA, in collaboration with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, plans to review and replace the Obama-era "waters of the United States" (WOTUS) rule as promised by President Trump.

Senator Crapo remarked on the administration's efforts: “The Trump Administration continues to deliver on its promise to reduce the size and scope of the federal government in places where it does not belong--like momentary puddles and groundwater ditches,” adding appreciation for Zeldin's actions within legal frameworks.

Senator Risch also commented on the situation: "The Waters of the United States rule is a prime example of Democrats' attempts to usurp state authority in natural resource management for years." He praised Trump's administration for rolling back regulations he deemed unreasonable for Idaho's landowners.

The background to this issue dates back to 2015 when the Obama Administration defined many bodies of water under federal regulation, which led to confusion within Idaho’s agriculture sector. This prompted calls from Idaho representatives for a revision favoring local jurisdiction.

In response, a new rule was proposed during Trump's presidency, aiming at clarity and predictability regarding water definitions. This Navigable Waters Protection Rule was finalized in 2020 but faced challenges after President Biden signed an Executive Order reversing these changes upon taking office. Crapo and Risch continue advocating against reinstating the original WOTUS rule, supporting instead the measures introduced under Trump’s tenure.