LANSING – The more conservative of the two chambers of Congress has approved legislation authorizing the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, which provides funds for various conservation and cleanup projects around the Great Lakes.
The program has already seen some $1.6 billion in federal funds since 2010, but U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-Royal Oak), a co-sponsor of the measure, said congressional authorization would make it more likely that the program would see continued funding.
“The Great Lakes Restoration Initiative was created by the Obama Administration and, since 2010, Congress has wisely funded it,” Mr. Levin said in a statement. “Now is the time for Congress to take the next step and formally authorize this vital program. Congress must remain a full partner in the restoration effort in the Great Lakes, and authorizing this initiative is the best way to do that.”
“This bill is good for the Great Lakes and the millions of people who depend on them for their drinking water, jobs and way of life. It will help keep restoration efforts on track and benefit the region’s environment and economy,” Todd Ambs, campaign director of the Healing Our Waters-Great Lakes Coalition, said in a statement.
The bill (H.R. 5764) was approved by a voice vote in the U.S. House and must still be approved by the U.S. Senate.
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