Talks on Water of the U.S. Rules Heats Up; USDA to Release Preparedness and Response Plans

While labeled a long-shot, Senate Republicans are seeking to strike down the EPA’s Waters of the U.S. rule. Legislation by Iowa Senator Joni Ernst seeks a disapproval resolution that would have to be enacted over a presidential veto. According to Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley’s office, a resolution of disapproval is a legislative procedure used to try to overturn regulations and rules put forth by the executive branch. If the Senate and House pass the resolution, the President must sign it to become law. If the President vetoes the bill, Congress must overturn the veto for the resolution to take effect.

A letter to Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack by the Senate Agriculture Committee last week asked questions over avian influenza and a possible vaccine. USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection service released the plan for potential outbreaks of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza. The Fall 2015 HPAI Influenza Preparedness and Response Plan focuses on preventing or reducing future outbreaks, enhancing preparedness, improving and streamlining response capabilities and preparing for the potential use of AI vaccines.