Madison Reporter

Scott Manley, Executive Vice President of Government Relations for Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce (WMC), testified this week before the Assembly Committee on Environment regarding a proposed rule from the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) known as CR 23-010. The rule aims to revise Wisconsin’s water quality antidegradation policy and procedures.

The antidegradation review process applies to point source discharges into surface waters, such as wastewater and storm water. This affects a range of businesses that require permits for these discharges, including manufacturers, papermakers, food processors, and farms like large animal feeding operations.

Rulemaking efforts began in 2021. WMC participated alongside other stakeholders in discussions with DNR to improve the proposed rule and reduce its potential negative effects on businesses in Wisconsin.

During his testimony, Manley expressed concern about recent developments in the rulemaking process. He stated: “We were incredibly disappointed to learn that three weeks ago the DNR decided to backtrack on its testimony to this committee earlier this year, and has resubmitted the rule with none of modifications the agency publicly stated they would make. This is a breach of good faith with the public and stakeholders, as well as the members of the committee who voted unanimously to request changes last session.”

Further details on WMC’s position are available through their published testimony.