Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart Secures $164 Million for Everglades Restoration in Energy and Water Bill

Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart Secures $164 Million for Everglades Restoration in Energy and Water Bill

Diaz-Balart successfully secures combined $233 million in House bills, will work to ensure funding included in any final legislation

Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL) today voted for the Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2007 (H.R. 5427), which will provide funding to help keep our air and water clean and put our nation on the path to energy independence.

"I am extremely pleased that $164 million for Everglades restoration was included in this legislation," said Diaz-Balart, who successfully secured a combined $233 million for Everglades restoration projects in House appropriation bills. "The Everglades is both a national and a natural treasure that we must protect for future generations. I want to thank Chairmen Hobson and Taylor for working with me on this important issue. As this legislation moves forward, I will continue working to ensure this funding is included in any final bill.

"I am also pleased that this legislation addresses the importance of developing energy independence and the development of alternative sources of energy," Diaz-Balart continued. "The Energy and Water Appropriations Act provides funding for significant research into a variety of alternative energy technologies, including biomass, hydrogen, solar, wind, and clean coal. Developments in these technologies will help put our nation on the path to energy independence and help make our air and water cleaner by reducing pollution."

http://www.house.gov/mariodiaz-balart/news/2006news/052406_energywaterapprops.htm