House Lawmakers Seek $10 Billion for Coastal Restoration
A bipartisan group of Congressional representatives, led by the co-chairs of the House Oceans Caucus, recently called on House leadership to approve $10 billion for coastal restoration programs. The letter was organized by Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (D-Ore.) and Don Young (R-Alaska).
“As our efforts continue to confront the economic and health consequences of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, Congress cannot neglect the needs of our coastal communities and the blue economy, the members wrote in their letter. “We need to provide a vital lifeline to create new and ongoing economic opportunities.” The letter requested more funding for ocean research, more aid for fishing businesses, and the creation of a National Coastal Resilience Fund and a Resiliency and Habitat Grant Program. Great Lakes members signing the letter included Debbie Dingell (D-MI), Gwen Moore (D-WI), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY). View letter.