AFB reacts to supreme court's call for clarity

Farm Bureau applauds clearer laws decision

By Farms.com

The American Farm Bureau (AFB) is applauding a recent Supreme Court decision that shifts the responsibility for writing clear laws to Congress. The decision overturned a longstanding precedent that gave federal agencies more leeway in interpreting ambiguous laws.

The AFB believes the previous system, known as Chevron deference, led to unclear regulations, like the Environmental Protection Agency's definition of "Waters of the U.S." (WOTUS). This lack of clarity caused frustration for farmers who faced uncertainty about what regulations applied to their land.

AFB Deputy General Counsel Travis Cushman says the Supreme Court's ruling is a positive step. "The Court is telling Congress they need to write clear laws, not leave it up to the courts or agencies to interpret them." He emphasizes that clear laws will benefit everyone involved.

Cushman acknowledges the challenge of writing clear and specific laws, particularly on complex issues like environmental regulations. However, he believes it's necessary to avoid situations like WOTUS, where regulations changed repeatedly based on the current administration.

The Supreme Court's decision is seen as a way to restore the balance of power between the legislative and judicial branches. Lawmakers will now have a greater responsibility to clearly define the scope of regulations they create.