Last Week, Reps. Nick LaLota (NY-01) and Joe Courtney (CT-03), Co-Chairs of the Long Island Sound Caucus, introduced the bipartisan Long Island Sound Stewardship and Restoration Act, which would reauthorize the Long Island Sound Program to ensure the protection and preservation of the Sound.
This is the House companion to legislation introduced by Sens. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), and Chris Murphy (D-CT).
“As the Co-Chair of the Long Island Sound Caucus, I am proud to introduce the Long Island Sound Stewardship and Restoration Act. The Long Island Sound is not just a body of water; it's a way of life for our community,” said LaLota. “This legislation underscores the vital importance of preserving this natural treasure, not only for our environment but for the thriving fishing industry that sustains Long Island's economy. Together, we can ensure the continued health and prosperity of Long Island Sound, a resource that defines our region and sustains our livelihoods.”
“The Long Island Sound is a unique ecological resource for eastern Connecticut and is home to a vast array of economic activities in our region. This legislation reauthorizes the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Long Island Sound Program which will ensure the Sound remains a valuable resource for generations to come,” said Courtney. “Last year our region secured an historic new investment for the Long Island Sound from the federal Infrastructure Law and the FY23 government spending package. Reauthorizing the Long Island Sound Program ensures Congress can continue to invest in the preservation and protection of this special region.”
To read the full text of the legislation, click HERE.
Background:
The Long Island Sound Stewardship and Restoration Act would reauthorize the Long Island Sound Program through 2028.
In 1985, Congress created the Long Island Sound Study (LISS) to identify and address the major environmental problems affecting the Long Island Sound. The LISS brings together the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), New York State, Connecticut, non-profit organizations, and educational institutions to help restore and protect the Long Island Sound, including the watershed, which spans up towards New Hampshire and Vermont into Canada.