House Passes Amendment Sponsored by Dr. Benishek to Fight Invasive Species

Press Release

The U.S. House of Representatives today passed an amendment, cosponsored by Dr. Dan Benishek's (MI-01), aimed at combating invasive species in the Great Lakes.

"We have to protect the Great Lakes from the threat of invasive species. Having lived my entire life in Northern Michigan, I know just how important the Great Lakes are to our way of life up here. This is a bipartisan effort that will help fight the spread of species like Asian carp and sea lamprey," said Dr. Benishek, an avid sportsman and lifelong resident of Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

The amendment, written by Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-05) and cosponsored by Dr. Benishek, will require the federal government to conduct an economic assessment of the impact that invasive species have had in the nation. Great Lakes businesses suffer $50 million in losses every year and reduced demand due to invasive species, such as mollusks and sea lamprey.

"I want to see our children and grandchildren be able to enjoy the Great Lakes just like I always have. That's what they deserve," added Dr. Benishek.

Dr. Benishek has been a leader in Congress on combating invasive species, having endorsed measures such as the "Asian Carp Prevention Act," the "Stop Asian Carp Act", and the "Cormorant Management Act." Dr. Benishek is also a member of the Great Lakes Task Force, a bipartisan group in Congress whose sole purpose is aimed at protecting and defending the Great Lakes, as well as promoting the positive economic impact the Lakes provide to the region.

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