"Clean Water: House Bars EPA From Overruling States On Pollution"

"The Republican-controlled House passed a bill Wednesday that would sharply curtail the federal government's role in protecting waters from pollution by barring the Environmental Protection Agency from overruling state decisions on water quality.

The bill passed on a 239-184 vote. Sixteen Democrats joined the majority of Republicans in supporting it. The White House threatened to veto the bill, saying it "would roll back the key provisions ... that have been the underpinning of 40 years of progress in making the nation's waters fishable, swimmable and drinkable."

Under the Clean Water Act, states have primary responsibility for protecting waterways after the EPA signs off on their plans. But the agency can step in if it thinks water resources aren't being adequately protected."

Dina Cappiello reports for the Associated Press July 13, 2011.

SEE ALSO:

"U.S. House Votes To End EPA Water Pollution Oversight" (Charleston Gazette)