Joyce Helps to Secure GLRI Funding Increase in Omnibus

Press Release

Today, U.S. Congressman Dave Joyce (OH-14) announced that he's helped to secure $300 million in Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) funding for fiscal year 2014. The funds are part of the omnibus measure whichresulted from the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013. The funds will be used to address the most significant challenges facing the Great Lakes including aquatic invasive species, habitat and wildlife protection and restoration, contaminated sediment, and nonpoint source pollution. Joyce stated:

"This is a big win for Northeast Ohio because it helps ensure our Great Lakes will remain an economic powerhouse and source of job creation for years to come. The Great Lakes are directly connected to 1.5 million jobs, generating $62 billion in wages annually. I'm proud to have led the bipartisan efforts to ensure our greatest economic and environmental resource will continue to thrive."

The $1.012 trillion omnibus appropriations bill would help to restore regular order through an appropriations process while also eliminating any threat of a government shutdown. Last year, Joyce restored $150 million in GLRI funding during an Interior Subcommittee markup after it was cut to $60 million. Joyce has also introduced the bipartisan Great Lakes Ecological and Economic Protection Act (GLEEPA) which would authorize comprehensive programs that protect the Great Lakes and boost economic growth in the Great Lakes region.

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