Stauber Applauds Committee Passage of Bipartisan Bill to Protect Water Quality Nationwide and in the Great Lakes Region

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee passed the American Water Stewardship Act, bipartisan legislation led by Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) to reauthorize critical funding for programs that maintain and improve water quality across the nation, including the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI).

“The passage of the American Water Stewardship Act is fantastic news for communities across America, especially in our beloved Great Lakes region,” said Congressman Pete Stauber. “This bill will lock in funding for programs like the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, driving jobs, boosting recreation, protecting drinking water, and delivering massive economic growth while preserving important American water systems for generations to come. I look forward to this bill passing on the House Floor soon.”

In addition to the GLRI, the American Water Stewardship Act reauthorizes the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Long Island Sound and Columbia River Basin Restoration programs, the National Estuary Program, and the EPA’s BEACH Act program. These initiatives will continue addressing water quality challenges and supporting ecosystem restoration projects nationwide.

Background: The GLRI represents the largest investment in the Great Lakes ecosystem—the world’s largest system of fresh surface water—targeting Areas of Concern, invasive species, non-point source pollution, and habitat restoration. Over 8,000 projects have been completed in partnership with states, nonprofits, and communities, delivering more than $3 in economic return for every federal dollar invested.

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