Wasserman Schultz Statement on Passage of WRDA

Washington, DC – U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23) issued the following statement after the passage of the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation Act:

“The passage of the Water Infrastructure Improvements for The Nation Act (previously known as the Water Resources Development Act of 2016, or “WRDA”) is a critical step forward in protecting and restoring our state’s environmental treasures and key resources. In particular, I am proud that with our South Florida congressional delegation’s advocacy, WRDA contains $1.9 billion for the Central Everglades Project (CEP), which will improve water flow in and around the Everglades and help restore the health of our “River of Grass.” Port Everglades, which is in my congressional district, is the centerpiece of economic activity in Broward and South Florida. I’m proud to have helped secure, after nearly 18 years of teamwork, funding of more than $335 million for the Port Everglades Harbor Dredging Project, which will help South Florida’s economy maintain and expand its position as a hub of international trade and commerce.

“In addition, WRDA and the Continuing Resolution contain more than $145 million for programs to address the Flint water crisis. I visited Flint earlier this year to hear firsthand from its residents how this tragic crisis has impacted them. I was devastated to hear from the mothers of Flint, who had to worry about bathing and washing their children in lead-contaminated water. I am glad that the families of Flint will finally receive the funding they need, but I am appalled that this aid is coming many months later than it should have. The people of Flint did not deserve to wait this long, or any longer, for programs that will help their community rebuild from a tragedy of epic proportions.”

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