Court blocks Waterways of the United States ruling and NAHB works to stop floodplain regulations.
The Obama Administration is looking to expand protection of waterways and floodplains in the United States by promulgating rules from the EPA and Army Corps of Engineers. The EPA and supporters of The Waterways of the United States rule say that it will protect the safety of drinking water, streams and rivers, and more clearly define the Clean Water Act. Opponents believe this is a power grab that will adversely hurt agriculture, manufacturing, and housing to name a few, because it could turn a ditch or depression into a regulated waterway. Recently, a judge blocked the rule from taking effect in Missouri and several other states saying it went too far.
The Floodplain Regulations would have initially expanded the 100-year floodplain to the climate informed floodplain, the 500-year floodplain, or the 100-year floodplain plus an additional 2 to 3 foot barrier, thereby limiting building locations and making the process more costly.
NAHB (National Association of Home Builders) mobilized its resources and worked to get the rule amended so that it would not adversely affect the housing industry or make homes more expensive for buyers.