Government Relations E-news, November 2010
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) nutrient pollution is a widespread issue with high nitrogen and phosphorus loads resulting in harmful algal blooms, reduced spawning grounds and nursery habitats, fish kills, oxygen-starved hypoxic or "dead" zones and public health concerns. Several states in the union including Florida, Montana, Kansas and Wisconsin are already dealing with nutrient reduction guidelines and it is just a matter of time before these regulations are enforced locally. This will ultimately require SD1 to upgrade its three wastewater treatment plants and will likely require additional reductions in storm water discharges (or prohibitions on new development or mandates for redevelopment).
Identifying the appropriate nutrient criteria to protect aquatic life (fish, bus and plants) is complicated and generally requires a large amount of site-specific data to ensure that the standards are based on sound science and are not overly restrictive. In other words, it is not possible to take a "one-size-fits-all" approach when it comes to creating these regulations.
Because of the nature of these regulations, and the financial implications it can have on the ratepayers in Northern Kentucky, SD1 is requesting to be a part of the task force that is determining the limits and regulations for nitrogen and phosphorus levels in our waterways. By having a seat at the table, SD1 can ensure that cost-effectiveness and affordability are adequately considered.
Call to Action
How can you help? Congressman Geoff Davis has recently introduced legislation that will restore congressional accountability for burdensome federal regulations. House Resolution 3765 which has been named the Regulations from the Executive In Need of Scrutiny act (REINS Act), requires that Congress must affirmatively approve any new MAJOR rule proposed by the Executive Branch before it can be enforced on the American people. It also retains existing law permitting Congress to disapprove non-major rules. For an explanation on what constitutes a "major" rule, please click here to download a fact sheet regarding the REINS Act.
Several local organizations including the Homebuilders Association, SD1 and the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce have already confirmed their support for the REINS Act. We invite you to send a similar letter of support to Congressman Davis from your city or county to help get this important piece of legislation passed.
For more information on the REINS Act or the nutrient regulations, please contact SD1 at 859-578-7450.