Associated Industries of Florida is applauding a ruling by Administrative Law Judge Bram D.E. Canter on Thursday that upheld the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s proposed water standards, known as numeric nutrient rules.

“By doing so, our state is sending a clear message to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that the new numeric nutrient criteria rules are ready for implementation,” Tom Feeney, AIF president, stated in a release.

“The Florida Legislature and now Judge Canter have confirmed that DEP has set the right course for setting our water quality standards. This is a state issue and should continue to be regulated by the state based on sound science.”

The state’s proposal, backed by business groups and agricultural interests, has been challenged by five environmental groups.