Clean water for drinking, swimming, and fishing should be guaranteed. Unfortunately, the U.S. Supreme Court recently weakened the Clean Water Act (CWA) by removing federal protections for a majority of streams and wetlands.
Now communities rely on state laws more than ever to secure clean water. Fortunately, Maryland already has strong water laws. But unlike at the federal level, in Maryland, there is no right for communities to enforce the state law.
We are calling on Maryland state legislators to ensure that communities maintain their ability to keep their waters safe by passing the Clean Water Justice Act.
The Clean Water Justice Act allows communities harmed by illegal water pollution to enforce Maryland’s clean water law. This access to the courts is crucial, because a law is only meaningful when it is enforced.
When community groups bring clean water enforcement actions, which have been some of the most noteworthy, the state often follows, allowing the community groups to work alongside the state to enforce the law.
Community members, and particularly Waterkeepers, have been the eyes and ears on the water. This partnership is a valuable resource for anyone who cares about clean water.
Sign the petition to call on Maryland to pass the Clean Water Justice Act!
More info at https://waterkeeperschesapeake.org/clean-water-justice-act/
EN 
ES