Few resources are as vital to Florida and our nation as our estuaries. These unique ecosystems, where freshwater mixes with the ocean’s saltwater, support wildlife, strengthen economies, and are essential to our way of life along the Treasure Coast.

All of this is why I was proud to cosponsor the Estuaries Act, and I’m proud to say it just passed the House. This bill extends the reauthorization of the National Estuary Program and funds it through Fiscal Year 2031 to continue protecting and restoring estuaries across the country.

Through the National Estuary Program, the Environmental Protection Agency partners with states, local governments, regional water authorities, nonprofits, and community organizations to develop conservation and management plans. Focused on real-world challenges that threaten the health and vitality of our estuaries, the program addresses water pollution, habitat loss, and declining wildlife populations.