Thomas Foley: “representing 42 miles of ocean coastline, I strongly support H.R. 1965. Many States such as Florida depend on a healthy…”

“representing 42 miles of ocean coastline, I strongly support H.R. 1965. Many States such as Florida depend on a healthy coastline for commerce, transportation, fishing, and recreation. In fact, over half of our Nation's population live in coastal areas and this population is expected to grow by 15 percent in the next 20 years. Under this voluntary program, States receive Federal matching grants to implement a plan to protect coasts and prevent ocean pollution. This program also extends to our Nation's estuaries. In my community, the St. Lucie River Initiative, a group of concerned citizens, businesses and local community leaders, have worked together to protect the St. Lucie Estuary, the largest tributary to the Indian River Lagoon. This once vibrant body of water and habitat for plant and wildlife species is in serious decline today due to federally built canals that have disrupted the natural flow of water into the river. Today, we have an opportunity to continue the Federal-State partnership in protecting our Nation's estuaries and coastlines. I urge my colleagues to support the passage of H.R. 1965.”