Northwest Straits Marine Conservation Initiative Reauthorization Act of 2025

Floor Speech

Mr. Speaker, H.R. 2860 reauthorizes the Northwest Straits Marine Conservation Initiative Act. This legislation promotes the protection and restoration of marine ecosystems in the Northwest Straits region of Washington State.

The Northwest Straits region is a special place. It encompasses the marine waters of the Strait de Juan de Fuca and Puget Sound, a region of priceless biodiversity that is home to iconic species such as salmon, tufted puffins, and orcas. It has been stewarded by communities for generations.

However, over the 20th century, the region's environmental health has declined due to habitat loss, reductions in wildlife populations, declining water quality, and the impacts of climate change. We must do everything we can to address these issues.

This bill takes a comprehensive approach to restore and protect the area. It leverages local knowledge and community engagement, while providing Federal resources and technical assistance to support and strengthen these ongoing efforts.

This bill provides funding for projects that strengthen and proactively protect these ecosystems and support critical restoration. It also fosters collaboration by utilizing and reinforcing partnerships with Tribal Governments, local communities, and State and Federal agencies. It supports local communities' efforts to address environmental degradation, respond to the threats posed by climate change, and protect marine ecosystems.
BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Ms. STANSBURY. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this legislation, and I yield back the balance of my time.

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Source