On the Issues
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GREAT LAKES RESTORATION ACT Senator Levin and Senator Mike DeWine, R-Ohio, have sponsored three bills aimed at restoring the Great Lakes. In April 2006, they introduced the Great Lakes Collaboration Implementation Act, which would implement many of the recommendations in the Great Lakes Regional Collaboration Strategy. The bill would reduce the threat of invasive species in the lakes, restore fish and wildlife, clean up contaminated sediments, and coordinate water quality management. On July 11, 2006, the Senate passed the Great Lakes Fish and Wildlife Restoration Act, S. 2430, which was introduced by Senators Levin and DeWine in March 2006, to reauthorize the existing program. The bill authorizes $12 million for the state and tribal grant program to restore fish and wildlife; requires the Fish and Wildlife Service to provide information on-line for fish and wildlife managers; calls for reports; and maintains the Fish and Wildlife Service offices. The bill was signed into law on October 11, 2006. In July 2003, Senators Levin and DeWine sponsored the Great Lakes Environmental Restoration Act, which would provide up to $600 million per year for restoration activities. This funding would not replace existing programs, rather, it would add to them. The legislation would improve coordination and efficiency among the federal agencies working in the Great Lakes. Finally, the bill would require the Environmental Protection Agency to set up a federal monitoring system in the Great Lakes to provide the data that is needed to steer future projects and programs. According to the Government Accountability Office, there is not now sufficient data to adequately assess restoration programs. The Great Lakes Environmental Restoration Act would provide $6 billion over 10 years in Great Lakes ecosystem restoration funding. Related Bills and Laws:
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Contaminated Sediments
Contaminated sediments are found throughout the tributaries flowing into the Great Lakes, and cleaning up these sediments is important for human health and ecosystem health. more >
Great Lakes Restoration Act
The Great Lakes Environmental Restoration Act would provide $6 billion over 10 years in Great Lakes ecosystem restoration funding. more >
Invasive Species
The Great Lakes have over 160 non-native species, like the zebra mussel and Eurasian ruffe that have invaded the lakes from other regions of the world. Preventing future invasions into the Great Lakes is critical for the native fishery and wildlife. more >
Water Quality
The Great Lakes are a tremendous natural resource that millions of people rely on for drinking water, and ensuring water quality is a priority. more >
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