Contacts:

Matt Dempsey Matt_Dempsey@epw.senate.gov (202) 224-9797

David Lungren David_Lungren@epw.senate.gov (202) 224-5642

Obama Signs Three EPW Bills into Law

Inhofe Welcomes Bipartisan Effort, Hopes Bills Set Example for 112th Congress

Washington, D.C.-Sen. James Inhofe (R-Okla.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works, today welcomed news that President Obama signed three bipartisan EPW bills into law this week, each of which strengthens public health protections without putting jobs or economic growth at risk.  

"These bills, which are now the law of the land, should serve as the model for addressing the many legislative challenges we face," Sen. Inhofe said.  "In these particular cases, we worked together, Republicans and Democrats, to address environmental issues with proper concern for maintaining jobs and keeping the economy growing.  I believe we have a solid foundation to work from as we move into the 112th Congress. 

"These bills will strengthen protections for drinking water and improve air quality.  Another important bill ends an unfunded mandate on local communities, as the federal government will now pay its fair share to address stormwater pollution. 

"Finally, I want to thank EPW Senators Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.), Tom Carper (D-Del.), Ben Cardin (D-Md.), and former Sen. George Voinovich (R-Ohio) for their efforts to get these bills to the President's desk."

EPW Legislation Signed Into Law:

  • Bipartisan Clean Diesel Reauthorization: S. 3973, the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act of 2010(DERA), strikes the appropriate balance between continuing the nation's, and Oklahoma's, success in reducing emissions without putting jobs and small businesses at risk. Further, S. 3973 reduces DERA's 2005 authorization levels, which means it is fiscally sound. Link 
  • Reducing Lead in Drinking Water: S. 3874, the Reduction of Lead in Drinking Water Act, reduces the allowable lead content in drinking water pipes, pipe fittings, and plumbing fixtures. The bill was supported by the Plumbing Manufacturers Association. Link 
  • Requiring Federal Agencies to Pay Stormwater Pollution Fees: S. 3481 requires federal agencies to pay their fair share of stormwater management fees. Right now, some federal agencies avoid paying these fees, imposing costly burdens on local communities where agencies operate. Link

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