Sarbanes, Scott, Wittman, Warner Lead Bipartisan, Bicameral Effort to Restore the Chesapeake Bay and Expand Environmental Education Programs

Press Release

Congressman John Sarbanes (D-Md.) today joined U.S. Representatives Robert C. "Bobby" Scott (D-Va.) and Rob Wittman (R-Va.), along with U.S. Senator Mark R. Warner (D-Va.), to reintroduce the Chesapeake Bay Science, Education and Ecosystem Enhancement (SEEE) Act, a bipartisan bill to restore the health of the Bay Watershed, strengthen fisheries management and expand environmental education programs for residents across the Watershed.

"This bipartisan effort will help support the important work of NOAA's Chesapeake Bay Office," said Congressman Sarbanes, Co-Chair of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Task Force. "It builds on the successful Bay protection programs we already have in place and invests in federal, state and local partnerships that safeguard ecosystems, promote sustainability, bolster climate resiliency and increase access to environmental education and stewardship opportunities."

"The SEEE Act ensures that federal, state and local efforts to restore the Bay are coordinated and remain on track," said Congressman Scott, Co-Chair of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Task Force. "It also supports educational enrichment programs throughout the Bay and its watershed -- training teachers, supporting curriculum development and providing students an opportunity to engage with the sciences and this national treasure."

"I am proud to join my colleagues to continue our work to protect the Chesapeake Bay," said Congressman Wittman. "NOAA's Chesapeake Bay Office does important work protecting and conserving the critical coastal and marine habitat in Virginia -- ensuring healthy and sustainable fisheries and vibrant commercial and recreational opportunities for so many. Also, by helping students to learn more about the Chesapeake Bay and what it takes to protect it, we can inspire the next generation to conserve this national treasure."

"The Chesapeake Bay is not only an important recreational and ecological treasure, it's also a vital economic engine for Virginia," said Senator Warner. "I am proud to introduce this legislation that will support the mission of NOAA's Chesapeake Bay office to improve the health of the Bay and ensure its sustainable use for generations to come."

Key provisions of the Chesapeake Bay SEEE Act include:

Reauthorizing the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) Chesapeake Bay Office to support the Watershed's restoration effort;

Authorizing the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Education and Training program to help connect residents to the Bay; and

Providing critical resources for the NOAA Bay Office to fulfill its mission and enhance the Chesapeake Bay region.

See here for more information about the bill.

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