Florida Chamber Applauds Senator Rubio’s Proposal Regarding Protecting Florida Water Bodies
PrintFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Edie Ousley, 850-521-1231
eousley@flchamber.com
TALLAHASSEE, FL (February 16, 2012) – The Florida Chamber of Commerce commends U.S. Senator Marco Rubio for legislation filed today that would make sure Florida can determine the best approach to protecting its own water bodies rather than leaving such an important decision in the hands of federal bureaucrats.
The “State Waters Partnership Act of 2012” says that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency must suspend its federal nutrient criteria rulemakings while it considers approving Florida’s standards, and upon approval, only the Florida nutrient criteria rules would apply in the state.
The legislation supports Florida’s right to set scientifically based nutrient criteria for Florida’s waters, a position advocated by the Florida Chamber, and recently embraced by the Florida Legislature. The proposal is designed to ensure that Florida’s water standards are sound and can provide economic security for our state.
“Florida is a leader in job creation and water standards, and the last thing Florida needs is yet another job-killing regulation from Washington,” said Florida Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Mark Wilson. “Free enterprise works best with clear rules and Senator Rubio’s legislation will make sure the rules set by Florida, for Florida, will be implemented in Florida.”
A set of criteria for Florida was adopted by the state Environmental Regulation Commission in December, unanimously approved by the Florida House and Senate this month, and is awaiting Governor Scott’s signature. Senator Rubio’s bill, and a similar one previously filed in the House by U.S. Rep. Steve Southerland, will help ensure that these state rules are promptly approved in their entirety by the federal government.
“The Florida Chamber commends Governor Rick Scott for today signing into law important water quality legislation that provides our state with the ability to establish science based nutrient criteria rules,” said Florida Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Mark Wilson. “Florida’s science-based rules will protect Florida’s natural resources while also promoting sustainable economic growth. “
