Farmer-Informed WOTUS Act of 2023

The Farmer-Informed WOTUS Act of 2023, also known as Bill 118 s 1023, is a piece of legislation currently being considered by the US Congress. The purpose of this bill is to provide farmers with a greater voice in the regulation of water on their land.

The bill aims to amend the Clean Water Act to require the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to consult with agricultural stakeholders when developing regulations related to the Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule. This rule defines which bodies of water are subject to federal regulation under the Clean Water Act.

Under the Farmer-Informed WOTUS Act, the EPA would be required to consider the input of farmers and other agricultural stakeholders when determining which bodies of water should be classified as "waters of the United States." This would ensure that the regulations are more reflective of the needs and concerns of those who work the land. Supporters of the bill argue that it will help to prevent overreach by the federal government and ensure that regulations are more practical and effective for farmers. Critics, however, are concerned that giving farmers more influence over water regulations could lead to environmental harm and decreased water quality. Overall, the Farmer-Informed WOTUS Act of 2023 seeks to strike a balance between protecting water resources and supporting the agricultural industry. It is currently under review in Congress, where lawmakers will debate its potential impact and determine whether it should be passed into law.