Van Hollen Statement on HR 3080

Floor Speech

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this bipartisan agreement to make critical investments in our nation's water infrastructure. Today's bill is an example of Congress working together to address the priorities of the American people, and I applaud the Conference Committee for the hard work that brought it to the Floor.

The Water Resources Reform and Development Act authorizes critical projects to maintain our nation's waterways and ports. For Maryland, this work ensures continued operations at the Port of Baltimore, supporting thousands of jobs and encouraging trade. It also provides essential support for the ongoing restoration of the Chesapeake Bay, from creating habitat out of clean dredged material at Poplar Island to rebuilding our oyster population. Additionally, this bill provides for the development of a new, comprehensive plan for the Army Corps of Engineers to restore and protect the Bay.

After we pass this bill, we must provide the necessary funding to ensure the completion of its important work. I look forward to working with my colleagues to make sure we finish the job.

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