North Carolina Buffer Bill Would Allow More Pollution in Waterways
EDF statement from David Kelly, Senior Analyst, Ecosystems
A bill introduced in the North Carolina House of Representatives would weaken requirements for buffers—vegetated or forested strips of land beside rivers and streams—that are among the most cost-effective ways to filter pollution and keep waterways clean and healthy. Lawmakers have indicated that HB 760 “Regulatory Reform Act of 2015” could be scheduled for a vote in the House Regulatory Reform Committee April 23.
“The bill shifts responsibility for cleaning up our rivers and streams from polluters to taxpayers. Without effective buffers, more pollution will flow into waterways, and more taxpayer dollars will be spent on expensive treatment plants to clean up drinking water.
“The bill weakens water pollution controls. It is a handout for polluters at the expense of taxpayers.”
-David Kelly, Senior Analyst, EDF Ecosystems Program
One of the world’s leading international nonprofit organizations, Environmental Defense Fund (edf.org) creates transformational solutions to the most serious environmental problems. To do so, EDF links science, economics, law, and innovative private-sector partnerships. With more than 3 million members and offices in the United States, China, Mexico, Indonesia and the European Union, EDF’s scientists, economists, attorneys and policy experts are working in 28 countries to turn our solutions into action. Connect with us on Twitter @EnvDefenseFund
Media Contact
Latest press releases
-
Marking Fifth Anniversary of New York’s Climate Law, Organizations Urge Governor Hochul to Advance Ambitious and Equitable Cap-and-Invest Rules
July 30, 2024 -
GOP House Appropriators Are on the Wrong Track
July 26, 2024 -
Energy Permitting Reform Must Advance Climate Progress and Community Safeguards
July 26, 2024 -
EDF Heads to Court to Defend EPA Action to Identify Climate Pollution, Including Methane from Landfills
July 24, 2024 -
New DOE Transmission Grants Will Deliver Reliable Power, Lower Costs and Jobs to Communities
July 24, 2024 -
New analysis: If Duke Energy’s gas plant ambitions are approved, the average residential customer could pay nearly $2,100 more on power bills through 2038
July 23, 2024