The Joint Legislative Ad Hoc Study Committee on Water Security heard testimony on September 13 on the recent U.S. Supreme Court case, Sackett v. EPA, involving the “Waters of the United States” (WOTUS) and private property rights.
The Committee heard from Charles Yates of the Pacific Legal Foundation, who testified on the recent ruling and its impact on ordinary people. Members also heard from Jim Chilton of Southern Arizona, who spoke on his personal experience with WOTUS and the importance of protecting private property rights.
“The Waters of the United States has been one of the most complicated and litigated federal regulations in U.S. history,” said Representative Griffin, co-chair of the Joint Committee. “The Supreme Court’s recent ruling in Sackett v. EPA represents a major win for state control over land and water use and will help to restore private property rights for ordinary people across Arizona, especially in rural parts of the state.”
“Our country was founded on the principles of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness,” added Griffin. “There must be a balance between environmental overreach and local economic needs. The Sackett decision helps to restore this balance for the states and demonstrates the increasing encroachment of the federal government when proper checks aren’t put in place. Even at the state and local levels, radical
environmental groups and others are trying to control land to impact private property rights and water.”
In Arizona, private property accounts for only 13 percent of total land ownership (map). Housing affordability remains a critical issue for the people of Arizona.
Video of the hearing is available HERE
