Manchin and Capito Express Ongoing Frustration with OSM on Stream Protection Rule

U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) are concerned with the Department of the Interior (DOI) Office of Surface Mining and Reclamation Enforcement (OSMRE)’s decision to send its final stream protection rule to the White House without fulfilling obligations for state engagement as directed by Congress.
“I remain very concerned with the Office of Surface Mining decision to send the Stream Protection Rule without properly engaging state partners first,” Senator Manchin said. “I have been working diligently to make sure that key stakeholders that will be affected by this rule have a seat at the table to discuss the impact on our state and communities.  Before this rule is enacted, the Administration must engage with the states to make sure we avoid unintended consequences.”
“West Virginians care deeply about the state’s streams and water quality. Yet, the Office of Surface Mining has failed to engage with stakeholders in the state about the Stream Protection Rule, a regulation that could have serious impacts on our economy and communities,” said Senator Capito. “I will continue to lead efforts that push back against this and other regulations that increase regulatory burdens and cause job loss.”