Wichita Standard

Rep. Ron Estes of Kansas expressed approval following the Environmental Protection Agency's announcement to review the definition of Waters of the United States (WOTUS). The announcement was made by EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin.

Estes stated, "For too long, Kansas farmers and ranchers have dealt with ambiguity and uncertainty as a zealous EPA attempted to dictate every pond and puddle in our state." He added that Kansans manage their resources responsibly and do not require excessive regulation from federal authorities. According to Estes, this new approach will alleviate previous burdens while offering clarity for those managing water resources.

The EPA has indicated its intention to revise the WOTUS definition in accordance with legal standards. A statement from the agency mentioned, "The agencies will move quickly to ensure that a revised definition follows the law, reduces red-tape, cuts overall permitting costs, and lowers the cost of doing business in communities across the country while protecting the nation’s navigable waters from pollution."

This development comes after a significant ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court in Sackett v. Environmental Protection Agency. The decision prompted calls for clearer guidance on water resource management for various stakeholders.