EDF calls on North Carolina Governor to veto regulatory reform bill

(RALEIGH, NC) Environmental Defense Fund today called on North Carolina Governor Pat McCrory to veto the Regulatory Reform Act of 2015, passed late last night by state lawmakers. In a letter to the governor, EDF asks McCrory to veto House Bill 765 because “many of its provisions will increase risks for public health, the environment and North Carolina’s natural resources.”

EDF says the legislation is “inconsistent with North Carolina’s values and will allow more pollution of our air and water, degrade our lands, harm wildlife and jeopardize the health of families and communities.”

The letter, signed by EDF North Carolina Director Jane Preyer, spotlights three provisions of particular concern in the legislation:

·        Section 4.1 makes it possible for businesses that cut corners to profit from violating the law.

·        Section 4.7 insulates businesses from their responsibility to fully clean up soil and groundwater contamination that they cause.

·        Section 4.31 removes protections for nearly 50,000 miles of streams that supply drinking water, provide important fish habitat, and help keep waterways clean and healthy.

“Careful stewardship and thoughtful conservation of our environment and natural resources are core North Carolina values,” writes EDF in its appeal for a veto. “North Carolina’s Governors – Republican and Democratic – have helped forge a proud legacy of conservation for our state. Please veto House Bill 765 and send a clear message about your commitment to responsible and reverent stewardship of or lands, waters, and wildlife.”