North Carolina Buffer Bill Would Allow More Pollution in Waterways

A bill introduced in the North Carolina House of Representatives would weaken requirements for buffers—vegetated or forested strips of land beside rivers and streams—that are among the most cost-effective ways to filter pollution and keep waterways clean and healthy. Lawmakers have indicated that HB 760 “Regulatory Reform Act of 2015” could be scheduled for a vote in the House Regulatory Reform Committee April 23.

“The bill shifts responsibility for cleaning up our rivers and streams from polluters to taxpayers. Without effective buffers, more pollution will flow into waterways, and more taxpayer dollars will be spent on expensive treatment plants to clean up drinking water.

“The bill weakens water pollution controls. It is a handout for polluters at the expense of taxpayers.”

-David Kelly, Senior Analyst, EDF Ecosystems Program