House votes to extend Great Lakes protection program as part of water quality legislation

WASHINGTON, DC, Mar. 12, 2009 -- U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers, MI-08, issued the following statement regarding his support for the extension of the Great Lakes Legacy Act, passed today with bipartisan support by the U.S. House of Representatives as part of H.R. 1262, the Water Quality Investment Act of 2009.

"The Great Lakes provide water for 42 million people, support nearly one-third of the nation's recreational boating, and are the foundation for a major commercial and sport fishing industry. It is essential to continue the successful efforts begun under the Great Lakes Legacy Act as well as develop new and effective technologies for combating toxic sediments and protecting the lakes, which make up 95 percent of the surface freshwater in the entire United States. Michiganders take pride in the Great Lake's tremendous impact on our way of life and I am pleased that Congress has voted to protect the crown jewel of our region for generations to come."

Congressman Rogers was an original co-sponsor of the Great Lakes Legacy Act that passed with bipartisan support in the 110th Congress. Today's action increases the funding of the Great Lakes Legacy Act to 150 million for the next five years. H.R. 1262 passed the U.S. House of Representatives today by a vote of 317 to 101. It now awaits action in the U.S. Senate.

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