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The legislation now heads to the Senate floor, and the two Democratic senators from Connecticut are vowing to continue pushing until the bill is passed by the full Senate and signed by President Barack Obama.
“This historic measure helps protect and preserve one of our nation's most precious and important natural treasures-- providing immense environmental and economic benefits to Connecticut and the country,” Blumenthal said. “I’m pleased that this measure to ensure the restoration of the Sound is now headed to the Senate floor, and I will continue working with my colleagues to ensure that the Long Island Sound remains one of Connecticut’s most treasured and valuable resources for years to come.”
The Long Island Sound Restoration and Stewardship Act combines two complementary water quality and shore restoration program authorizations at their previous authorization levels of $40 million and $25 million per year. The legislation also provides for additional focus, oversight and coordination of federal activities related to the restoration of Long Island Sound.
“Today, we’re one step closer to ensuring the restoration and long-term health of Long Island Sound,” said Murphy. “The Sound is an unparalleled economic driver for Connecticut, generating billions for the state annually in tourism, fishing and boating. It’s home to hundreds of diverse species of wildlife, and its 1,300 square miles of coastline are the site of happy memories for my family and countless others across the state.
"We have an obligation to prioritize federal investments in Long Island Sound for the millions of Connecticut families who rely on it for work and recreation each year," he said. "As this bill heads to the Senate floor, I’ll be working hard with my colleagues to get it passed and signed into law.”
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