John Kasich often touts the value of Lake Erie and the rest of the Great Lakes. On Friday, the governor stood up for the natural treasure in a big way. He vetoed flawed legislation that attempted to implement the Great Lakes Compact.
The governor pointed out that the legislation fell short in crucial aspects, lacking, among other things, adequate standards for conservation and sufficient protection from withdrawals. He listened to the broad chorus of concerns, weighed the many factors and made the correct call. Now Ohio can get it right, achieving the “vigilant stewardship” the governor cited and the state’s partners expect as a first principle of the compact.