Governor Polis, CDPHE Statements on Supreme Court Decision on Waters of the U.S.

Thursday, May 25, 2023

DENVER- Today, Governor Jared Polis and Jill Hunsaker Ryan, Executive Director of CDPHE released the following statements in response to the Supreme Court decision on Sackett v U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, impacting the Waters of the U.S. 

“In Colorado, we know the importance of protecting our clean water resources for the health and safety of Coloradans, wildlife, and our thriving economy. My administration is deeply disappointed in this Court which has once again sided with special interests and polluters, by severely lessening protections for drinking water, wetlands, and tributaries. We are committed to protecting Colorado’s precious water resources to ensure that Coloradans can continue to count on a safe water supply vital for agriculture, recreation, and drinking water,” said Colorado Governor Jared Polis.

The administration and the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment(CDPHE)  anticipated this decision and have already been taking steps to protect waters in Colorado despite this disappointing court decision. 

“In Colorado, we are determined to protect the waters we all cherish and rely upon. We need clarity and stability in the rules so that we can responsibly grow, while also protecting our natural resources. We have been planning for this decision and have already developed a draft policy with partners from throughout the state. This will help ensure we continue to protect Colorado waters while moving toward a long-term, durable solution,” said Jill Hunsaker Ryan, Executive Director of CDPHE.

 

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