Hice Praises Passage Of Water Resources Development Act

Statement

Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 5303, the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2016, by a vote of 399-25. The bill authorizes the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) water infrastructure projects for navigable waters, harbors, ports, inland waterways, and flood control. Congressman Hice released the following statement after the passage of the bill on the House Floor:

"In recent years we've seen Washington's influence grow larger, and all too often, we have seen the federal government insert itself into state and local issues. The Water Resources Development Act bucks this trend and stands up for Georgia by striking a biased provision in federal law that could be used against our state during its ongoing legal dispute with Alabama and Florida. While these cases make their way through the judicial system, it is imperative that we remain committed to establishing a long term agreement with our neighbors that will ensure Georgia retains an adequate and reliable allocation of water to meet its needs for the next generation.

Furthermore, this legislation will strengthen our Nation's infrastructure, restore vital ecosystems, and maintain navigation routes for commerce and the movement of goods to keep us competitive in the global marketplace. As a representative from a state that is home to two of our Nation's most important ports, I absolutely understand the impact of these strategic investments, and I'm pleased to vote in support of them."

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