MATTHEW DALY, Associated Press

WASHINGTON (AP) — Democrats have again blocked a Republican proposal that would have forced the Obama administration to withdraw a federal rule to protect small streams and wetlands from development and pollution.

An amendment sponsored by North Dakota Sen. John Hoeven did not get the 60 votes needed Thursday to stop the controversial rule.

Thursday’s vote was the latest effort by Republicans to check the water rule, which they call an example of President Barack Obama’s overreach. Most Democrats support the Environmental Protection Agency rule, saying it will safeguard drinking water for 117 million Americans.

The Senate voted multiple times last year on GOP measures to thwart the rule. The efforts moved forward when a simple majority was required, but failed when 60 votes were needed. Fifty-six senators supported Hoeven’s amendment on Thursday.