Economists: Trump Administration's Decision To Repeal Water Rule Based On Flawed Analysis

Economists are disputing President Donald Trump administration's justification of rescinding a 2015 law that protects U.S. waters, saying it is based on flawed analysis. The Water of the United States (WOTUS) rule was imposed by President Barack Obama to further protect bodies of water. The law broadened the authority of the Environmental Protection Agency and Army Corps of Engineers over U.S. waters -- more than what the agencies had under the Clean Water Act. Trump and EPA Chief Scott Pruitt have been adamant about repealing the rule. In June, the administration submitted a proposal to rescind WOTUS, limiting the extent of the Clean Air Act.