Grace Napolitano: “I thank the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Malinowski) for H.R. 4044, the reauthorization of the very popular National…”

“I thank the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Malinowski) for H.R. 4044, the reauthorization of the very popular National Estuary Program, or NEP. It allows more proactive measures to be eligible under the program. The strong bipartisan support this bill has received is evidence of its widespread popularity and success. I am very pleased that several members of this committee have all cosponsored the bill. The bill represents the commitment to our coastal areas and the vital role they play in economic drivers, natural water filters, and protection from flooding events. Mr. Speaker, I strongly urge the EPA and States to work together to designate more national estuaries that can be eligible for this program, and I urge my colleagues to support the bill, H.R. 4044.”