BISMARCK, N.D. – More than a dozen states are challenging a new rule that gives federal authorities jurisdiction over some state waters.
North Dakota Attorney General Wayne Stenehjem (STEHN'-juhm) says the "Waters of the U.S." rule by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Army Corps of Engineers is "unnecessary" and "unlawful." He says it does nothing to increase water quality in North Dakota and other states.
Federal officials say the new rule aims to clarify which wetlands, streams and other waterways are protected under the Clean Water Act.
Stenehjem says a lawsuit seeking to have the rule thrown out was filed Monday in federal court in North Dakota.
The other states joining the lawsuit are Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Idaho, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, Nevada, South Dakota and Wyoming.
The hottest stories ripped from the headlines, from crime to courts, legal and scandal.
