Politics & Government

New House Bill Protects Lake Erie

State Rep. Matt Lundy explains the differences in House Bills, and which protect Lake Erie

We in Lorain County are so fortunate to enjoy all the beauty and fun Lake Erie has to offer. I have always said watching a great sunset on the lakefront is the best free event you’ll ever find in Ohio. Other state would love to enjoy all of the benefits Lake Erie provides.

Lake Erie supports a $10 billion dollar tourism industry, $1 billion dollar sport fishing industry, 250,000 manufacturing jobs and agriculture. To protect our lake, I supported a bi-partisan vote in 2008 in support of Ohio joining seven other states in The Great Lakes Compact. The compact requires states to adopt minimum standards for applications requesting increased withdrawals and consumption, and ways to determine the cumulative impact on the lake basin (includes tributaries such as streams, rivers and ground water).

I recently voted against HB 231 because it would allow companies to take 5 million gallons a day from the lake without a permit or any review. This could open the door to pollution which could affect drinking water supplies for million of Ohio families. It also leaves 80 percent of river miles in and around the lake unprotected, increasing the chances for environmental harm. The bill is out of step with understandings agreed to in the compact providing for a good balance between environmental and economic interests.

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I am joining with other legislators representing lakefront areas in co-sponsorship of a different bill: HB 257. It is a common-sense, bi-partisan option. It calls for the use of scientific models to set water diversion standards and provides a framework for long-term predictable withdrawal rates that balance economic needs and environmental concerns. Sadly, our bill (HB 257) has yet to have a hearing, while HB 231 is being raced through the legislature. Newspaper editorial boards across the state have been very critical of HB 231 because it permits for the largest withdrawal and consumptive use levels before any permitting is required of any Compact state.

Again, I believe that through support of HB 257, we can achieve a reasonable and responsible balance of economic needs and environmental concerns for Lake Erie.

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We are working to schedule our next “Lundy Listens” town hall for the summer and will update you shortly. I am here to help you with concerns about state government. I can be reached at 614-644-5076 or by email district57@ohr.state.oh.us. I look forward to serving you.


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