Bruce F. Vento: “I support this legislation which restores limited local control over municipal solid waste. Local governments across…”

“I support this legislation which restores limited local control over municipal solid waste. Local governments across this country would be burdened with enormous financial debts unless this Congress acts and approves legislation such as is before us today. Whether Members favor flow control or not, the fact of the matter is that local governments have been legitimately using this planning tool for over a decade, and have outstanding contractual agreements and obligations they are responsible to meet. This bill is a fair compromise that allows our local governments to basically keep their promises to investors and citizens on a good faith basis. This bill is not perfect. From my stand point, I support stronger flow control authority granted to the States, counties, and municipalities. I believe flow control provides State and local governments with the tools to manage waste disposal responsibility and effectively. A framework for solid waste recycling and disposal has been established in Minnesota and other States that is truly working with the underpinning of flow control. Solid waste disposal is certainly an issue that is inherently local, and State and local governments should have the authority to address the policy without being whipsawed between jurisdictions. The rationalization of sound solid waste policy responding to the environmental limits and reality is a key role of local government, surely we should permit them to do their job.”