The House of Representatives passage of H.R. 2018, a bill which would block the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency from tightening water pollutant limits without a state’s consent, is a win for politically powerful polluters and a loss for Florida families who need clean drinking water.

Statement by Earthjustice attorney Monica Reimer:

Credit: Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation, June 13, 2011. View photo slideshow of nutrient pollution and algae blooms.

“It is hard to imagine that Florida Rep. John Mica sponsored legislation that makes it harder to clean up toxic algae outbreaks like the ones that cover the St. Johns River and the Caloosahatchee River with toxic green slime.

"Where does he think our drinking water comes from? There’s a water plant in Southwest Florida right now shut down because of toxic algae. It should be serving 30,000 taxpaying citizens, but the water is too polluted.

"The EPA standards for Florida are designed to prevent this type public health threat. It is an absolute shame to watch our representatives play politics with our public health.”