THIS IS A PRESS RELEASE FROM THE OFFICE OF OHIO CONGRESSMAN CHARLIE WILSON.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Charlie Wilson (OH-6) is pleased that the Great Lakes Compact has been signed into law by the President. The Great Lakes Compact is an agreement between the eight lake-bordering states to protect the Great Lakes from water diversions and exports. The Compact was passed by Congress last week.

“I was proud to co-sponsor this legislation. The Great Lakes are a national treasure,” Wilson said. “The water in the lakes is not limitless. We must use our water wisely and keep the Great Lakes at healthy levels in order to maintain our region's competitive economic advantage.”

According to a release from the Council of Great Lakes Governors today, the Compact includes the following:
• Economic development will be fostered through sustainable use and responsible management of Basin waters.
• In general, there will be a ban on new diversions of water from the Basin but limited exceptions could be allowed in communities near the Basin when rigorous standards are met.
• Communities that apply for an exception will have a clear, predictable decision making process; standards to be met; and, opportunities to appeal decisions. These processes and standards do not exist under current law.
• The States will use a consistent standard to review proposed uses of Basin water. The States will have flexibility regarding their water management programs and how to apply this standard.
• Regional goals and objectives for water conservation and efficiency will be developed, and they will be reviewed every five years. Each State will develop and implement a water conservation and efficiency program that may be voluntary or mandatory.
• There is a strong commitment to continued public involvement in the implementation of the Compact.