Rep. Schakowsky recognizes Anniversary of Clean Water Act
CHICAGO, I.L. (October 18, 2011) —Today, Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-Ill.)released the following video message from Lake Michigan in recognition of the anniversary of the Clean Water Act.
Transcript of video:
"Hi, I am Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky, out here on a windy day on Forest Beach in the 9th District. Today we celebrate the anniversary of the Clean Water Act, legislation that has protected American water sources for 39 years.
Lake Michigan is one of our most treasured assets here in the 9th Congressional District. The Clean Water Act ensures the lake is safe for fishing, boating, swimming, and drinking.
Lake Michigan is the second-largest of our Great Lakes, and contains almost 20 percent of North American freshwater.
This year, several efforts have been made by Republicans in Congress to undermine the Clean Water Act — proposals that would have devastating consequences for our lakes, rivers, and streams.
One of those efforts, H.R. 2018, was passed by the Republican-led House in July. That bill would undermine EPA authority to establish nationwide water quality standards, and would instead leave those decisions to the states.
But we all realize that pollution in Lake Michigan, the Mississippi River, and other major water sources does not stop at state borders. A national policy is needed to ensure that we protect water quality for today and for future generations.
I am so grateful to the Obama Administration for having voiced strong support for the Clean Water Act, and the President's advisors would recommend him to veto H.R. 2018 if it reaches his desk.
On this day, I celebrate the benefits the Clean Water Act has provided for our country, and I reaffirm my commitment to protecting it and our natural resources....
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CONTACT: Adjoa Adofo; 202.225.2111
adjoa.adofo@mail.house.gov