Legislation (H.R. 5961)  introduced by Congresswoman Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va., to limit the EPA from conducting unnecessary aerial surveillance of farms across the country passed the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee today with bipartisan support.  The EPA has the authority to conduct aerial surveillance of agricultural lands when enforcing the Clean Water Act, however Capito argues farmers deserve advanced notice when bureaucrats fly over or visit the private land.

“I am thrilled that the Committee sees the importance of protecting local farmers from unnecessary aerial surveillance,” said Capito.  “Unemployment has been at or above 8% for 41 consecutive months.  Conducting flyovers of family farms across the country is not the best use of taxpayer money.  I look forward to the full House considering my bill as soon as possible.”

Linked below is a local article that appeared in the Pendelton Times about a specific incident of the EPA conducing aerial surveillance of farms.  It was reported that the EPA official who visited the family farm chosen for inspection reiterated that thejob of the EPA leaves no room for economic considerations. 

Click here to access the following

1.      The Associated Press Farmers and Ranchers Want End to Aerial Surveillance

2.      Pendleton Times article

3.      Capito letter to EPA

4.      EPA reply to Capito (confirming that the EPA does indeed conduct aerial surveillance)

5.      One-pager on Capito’s legislation