The US House approved President Obama’s historic commitment to Great Lakes restoration with a vote of 254 to 173. The $475 million investment will now head to the US Senate for a vote after the July fourth weekend.
Michigan’s Rep. Bart Stupak (D) voted in favor of the restoration funding today. “The Great Lakes are a national treasure and Michigan’s greatest resource. Our economy, health and way of life depend on protecting both the quality and quantity of Great Lakes water.” But even Rep. Stupak noted that the $475 million is just a down payment and much more will be needed to fully restore the Lakes. “Although we know much more funding will be needed, this is an encouraging and important start,” he added.
Yesterday the US Senate Appropriations Committee approved $400 million for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative.
“The urgent threats to our Lakes and our economy demand federal action. We are hopeful that with such strong support from Great Lakes members, the initiative will be fully funded at $475 million when the House and Senate reconcile their two bills,” Chad Lord, policy director for the Healing Our Waters-Great Lakes Coalition.
Related posts:
- President’s Great Lakes Initiative Makes it Past First Senate Hurdle
- House Approves $475M Great Lakes Restoration Initiative
- US Senate Gives Thumbs Up To GLRI
- Tell Senators to Fully Fund Great Lakes Restoration Initiative
- President Obama Signs Great Lakes Restoration Initiative into Law