Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentlewoman from Puerto Rico (Miss Gonzalez-Colon) on this particular bill. Miss GONZALEZ-COLON of Puerto Rico. Mr. Speaker, I thank Ranking Member Bishop. Mr. Speaker, I express my support for S. 910 to reauthorize the National Sea Grant College Program, which is a network of 34 university-based programs that support coastal States and territories, as well. In 2019, the Sea Grant program generated over $400 million in economic benefits and supported more than 10,000 jobs. In my district, the program, based at the University of Puerto Rico, has produced vital research to address erosion, has developed strategies for the sustainable use of fisheries, and has contributed to the island's tourism-based economy through its coral reef restoration efforts. Puerto Rico's Sea Grant is also a critical source of funding for research projects that provide data for the development of sound management plans for our marine resources. Mr. Speaker, I believe it is crucial that we reauthorize and support the Sea Grant program, and I urge my colleagues to vote in favor of it.”