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Neb. Gov. Ricketts Criticizes New Federal Water Rule

groundwaterLINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts is criticizing a new Obama administration rule that gives federal authorities authority to regulate more streams, tributaries and wetlands.

Ricketts called the rule “terrible” on Wednesday during a news conference with a farm industry leader, water regulators and a representative for golf courses.

The groups say the rule weakens local control of water and imposes costly and time-consuming permitting requirements on land owners.

Nebraska is one of 13 states that are challenging the law in federal court. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Army Corps of Engineers created the rule in response to calls from the U.S. Supreme Court and Congress to clarify which waterways are protected under the federal Clean Water Act.

The rule goes into effect on Aug. 28.

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