The U.S. Supreme Court has agreed to take up the dispute over which lower courts have jurisdiction to hear challenges to the EPA’s Clean Water Act rule, also known as Waters of the U.S., or WOTUS.
Ag groups, including the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and National Pork Producers Council, welcomed the announcement. They want the lawsuit to be heard in district court, while the Obama administration has fought to keep the litigation in appellate court.
The ag groups feel they have a better chance of success by starting at the district court level.
“The Supreme Court’s decision to hear our appeal is a victory for America’s cattle producers and all private property owners across the country,” said Scott Yager, environmental counsel for NCBA. “It shows that the court has a continued interest in private property rights and we look forward to oral arguments this spring.”
The ultimate fate of the litigation remains uncertain. The incoming Trump administration will likely take steps to eliminate the rule.
Source: brownfieldagnews.com