Bill > S2421

This bill amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to modify the definition of "navigable waters" by explicitly excluding certain types of water features from regulatory coverage. Specifically, the bill carves out four key exclusions: (1) waste treatment system components like lagoons or treatment ponds designed to manage wastewater, including those that convey, retain, concentrate, settle, reduce, or remove pollutants; (2) ephemeral features that only flow in direct response to precipitation; (3) groundwater; and (4) any additional features that the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency and the Secretary of the Army (acting through the Chief of Engineers) determine should be excluded. The purpose of these exclusions appears to be narrowing the scope of federal water pollution regulations, potentially providing more clarity and flexibility for industries and landowners regarding water management and environmental compliance. By defining what does not constitute "navigable waters," the bill aims to create more precise boundaries for environmental regulatory oversight.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2421/all-info