"If we start taking streams out of this regulatory reach, if we start taking waters out, people can dump their sewage in there without any type of permit."
"All we are saying is if there is an increase in costs and if it is going to take more time to obtain a permit or perpetuate the lack of regulatory predictability, the bill is null and void."
"If you oppose increasing pollution in our Nation's waterways and if you oppose putting greater burdens on the States, I urge a yes vote on this amendment."
"None of us wants a child to get sick. But the bottom line, let us recognize what you say in the name of deregulation and our authority over their authority, at the end of the day, what are we doing?"
"To me the most important thing is that our people are protected. Today, we took a giant step backward on that front, a giant step."
"These groups understand the important link between clean water and outdoor recreation. These groups work with Republicans and Democrats alike and they fiercely oppose this bill."
"I do not think this will ever become law."
"Unfortunately, the legislation before us today would take us in the wrong direction."
"I think a child in Arkansas, Alaska, California, Maryland or any one of our States deserves to be protected."
"It is time to restore much-needed certainty, consistency, and effectiveness and S. 1140 does just the opposite."
"This bill rips the heart out of the rule and frankly, out of the Clean Water Act."