"The Biden administration is restoring significant state and tribal authority over water resources and expanding their leverage on infrastructure permitting decisions, including for pipelines.

With a final rule announced Thursday, EPA reversed Trump-era limitations on state permit approvals, a move the agency said would bolster state and tribal abilities to protect their waters. In addition to restoring certain oversight powers, the move also gives states, tribes and territories a direct role in determining the duration of review processes.

EPA Administrator Michael Regan said in a statement that the rule would support “economically secure, healthy, and sustainable communities” and foster the relationship between the federal government and its lower-level partners."

E.A. Crunden reports for E&E News September 14, 2023. [2]

SEE ALSO:

"Biden Administration Gives States More Authority To Block Pipeline Projects" (The Hill) [3]

"Biden Administration Restores The Power Of States And Tribes To Review Projects To Protect Waterways" (AP) [4]