Hastings and Diaz-Balart Introduce the Everglades for the Next Generation Act

Today, Congressmen Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) and Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL), Co-Chairmen of the Congressional Everglades Caucus, introduced the Everglades for the Next Generation Act. The bill is the House Companion to legislation that was introduced by Senator Bill Nelson (D-FL), which authorizes Central Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP) projects and gives the Army Corps of Engineers the flexibility it needs to continue the restoration of the Everglades ecosystem. Please see the attached copy of the legislation.

"The Everglades for the Next Generation Act ensures that necessary Everglades restoration progress continues," said Congressman Alcee L. Hastings. While much has been accomplished on projects vital to restoring the Everglades, there are still a number of projects that have yet to be completed. This legislation authorizes future restorations that will strengthen the South Florida ecosystem and environment, bolster our local economy, and creates jobs. I am proud to introduce this legislation in the House of Representatives and look forward to working with my colleagues to ensure it is passed.

"I am pleased to co-sponsor this bill that will speed up the lengthy, yet necessary process to restore the Everglades. Instead of having to wade through bureaucratic tape each time a project is completed, the Army Corps of Engineers can seamlessly continue the work they are doing to protect the ecosystem. The Everglades is a natural treasure that we cannot take for granted, and we must do everything we can to ensure the restoration process continues to go smoothly," said Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart.

"When the water level in Lake Okeechobee gets too high, we either risk flooding or release the water and kill the rivers: that's an impossible choice we shouldn't have to make. That's one of the reasons it's important to get more Everglades restoration projects moving as soon as possible. There's simply too much at stake to wait around for Congress to pass another water bill," said Senator Bill Nelson.

Source