JEFFERSON CITY — Senator Mike Parson, R-Bolivar, issued the following statement in response to a recent announcement that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Army Corps of Engineers have finalized their proposed “Waters of the United States” rule. The new rule will drastically increase the current administration’s ability to exercise power over bodies of water that had previously been regulated at the state level. This rule change has been publicly opposed by governors, senators, and members of Congress from both political parties.

“This rule change is yet another example of the current administration’s abuse of authority, and it will be devastating for Missouri’s farmers and property owners. Through this regulatory change – which has had no input from Congress or the public – his bureaucratic allies at the EPA are attempting to drastically increase the federal government’s power over the states. This rule change is an attack on Missouri’s economy, and it must be stopped,” said Parson.