Congress passed the Great Lakes Water Resources Compact Tuesday, a bill which would stop commercial interests from diverting water from the Great Lakes basin.
It does allow some exceptions for communities near the basins, but rigorous standards need to be met.
Regional goals and objectives will also be set for water efficiency and conservation.
"We must protect the Great Lakes and Lake Superior to ensure our businesses and families can continue to depend on it for fresh water," said U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar. "Our businesses thrive on it for shipping and commerce, and, for our families, going up to the lake has become a favorite pastime -- this type of responsible stewardship is vital to Minnesota's environment and economy."
President Bush is expected to sign the bill into law in the coming weeks.
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-- Press release
