Roskam Votes to Override Bush Veto on WRDA

Press Release

ROSKAM VOTES TO OVERRIDE BUSH VETO ON WRDA

Supports Important Local Project Funding

Congressman Peter J. Roskam (R-IL) today voted to override President Bush's veto of H.R. 1495, the Water Resources Development Act of 2007 (WRDA), calling it an "essential funding measure" for local infrastructure development and water conservation projects.

"The Illinois Water System is a precious resource," said Roskam. "We need to maintain the Great Lakes and improve and restore the ecosystem along the Mississippi River."

The Water Resources Development Act authorizes the Army Corps of Engineers to proceed with construction of the Great Lakes Asian Carp Barrier, which protects vital Great Lakes ecosystems from threatening invasive species. The bill also contains nearly $2 billion for navigational improvements along the Mississippi River. This development is important for Illinois' agricultural industry and will help alleviate shipping delays for Illinois manufacturers. Finally, the bill takes important strides for conservation, funding $1.7 billion in projects throughout Illinois waterways.

"WRDA promotes environmental stewardship," noted Roskam. "It creates jobs and improves our transportation infrastructure."

The last Water Resources Development Act was enacted in 2000. Since then, measures have been brought up on several occasions but failed to gain the traction necessary to pass through the Congress. Today's bill garnered 361 votes, a strong message of opposition to the President's veto.

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