Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2008

Floor Speech

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR, ENVIRONMENT, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2008 -- (Extensions of Remarks - June 29, 2007)

The House in Committee of the Whole House on the State of the Union had under consideration the bill (H.R. 2643) making appropriations for the Department of the Interior, Environment, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2008, with Mr. Watt (Acting Chairman) in the chair:

* Mr. MARIO DIAZ-BALART of Florida. Mr. Chairman, I rise today to thank the Chairman, Ranking Member, and staff of the Interior and Environment Appropriations Subcommittee for their continued support of the Florida Everglades in the FY08 Interior and Environment Appropriations bill.

* This legislation includes funding for implementation of the Modified Waters Deliveries Project. This project is critical to Everglades Restoration, and will ensure natural water flows continue through Everglades National Park.

* The Florida Everglades is a unique and precious ecosystem that must be preserved for future generations. Everglades Restoration is a long-term investment that will ensure the Everglades is restored and protected.

* I am pleased that the Chairman included $72 million for Everglades Restoration, which is so critical to ensuring continuation of this vital project. The Interior share of funding combined with the appropriations made to the Army Corps of Engineers in the Energy and Water Appropriations bill will help to ensure restoration moves forward. This funding is a step in the right direction, showing the continued support of the Committee for Restoration. As the FY08 Appropriations cycle moves forward, I will work to ensure that Everglades Restoration remains a top priority.

* I thank my colleagues from Florida for their continued support of the Florida Everglades and Restoration funding. Additionally, I would like to thank the President for his steadfast support as well as the Governor of Florida. Floridians understand the great benefit the Everglades provide not just to our ecological diversity, but also to our economy, which is so dependent upon tourism and ecotourism.

* On behalf of the residents of Southern Florida I am so proud to represent, I thank the Chairman, Ranking Member, and their hardworking staff for their support of this funding.

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