News Release: Wyoming Files Lawsuit with Eleven Other States over Waters of the United States Rule

OFFICE OF GOVERNOR MATT MEAD

State Capitol

Cheyenne, WY 82002

Ph. (307) 777-7437

 

June 29, 2015

 

******FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE******

 

Contact:

David Bush

Communications Director 

david.bush@wyo.gov

 

 

Wyoming Files Lawsuit with Eleven Other States over Waters of the United States Rule

CHEYENNE, Wyo. – Governor Matt Mead announced today the State of Wyoming has joined in a lawsuit filed against the US Environmental Protection Agency and the US Army Corps of Engineers over the agencies’ Waters of the United States rule. Governor Mead has opposed this rule since it was first proposed and he will help lead a coalition of twelve states in litigation against the final rule. The final rule was published in the Federal Register today.

“I am disappointed at the lack of consideration shown to the states throughout this process,” said Governor Mead. “When I saw the original draft of the rule it was so flawed, I asked the agencies to withdraw it. Nonetheless, the agencies, without addressing significant concerns raised by Wyoming and other states, charged ahead.”

The Clean Water Act recognizes states as having primary responsibility for land and water within their boundaries. The coalition which filed the Complaint today includes the States of North Dakota, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Idaho, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, South Dakota, and Wyoming. The New Mexico Environment Department and New Mexico State Engineer are also parties.

“This rule expands the reach of federal agencies to lands and waters beyond the bounds set by Congress,” said Mead. “It is wrong for Wyoming, for every state and for the United States, and it is unlawful.”

A copy of the Complaint is available on the Governor’s website.

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