Byline: The Associated Press
WASHINGTON -- A huge cleanup plan to restore the Great Lakes for future generations needs to be a priority in Congress this year, lawmakers and environmental activists said Wednesday.
Members of Congress representing Great Lakes states outlined a $20 billion plan to improve water quality, restore fish and wildlife around the lakes and guard against invasive species that could inflict economic pain on the region.
The Great Lakes provide drinking water to about 40 million people and represent about 20 percent of the world's supply of fresh water. The waters are key to the region's tourist economy and industrial base.
A similar measure introduced last year failed to gain traction, but lawmakers said it was important to approve the framework before any significant shifts in Congress.
The House bill is backed by Reps. Rahm Emanuel, D-Ill., and Vernon Ehlers, R-Grand Rapids. The Senate version is led by Sens. Carl Levin, D-Detroit, and George Voinovich, R-Ohio.
With population booms in the Southwest, Ehlers noted redistricting occurs every decade and, "every 10 years, the Great Lakes states lose representation in Congress."
The proposal would help implement a Great Lakes restoration plan issued in December 2005.
The legislation would approve programs to stop the spread of invasive species and prevent the influx of Asian carp, prevent sewage contamination and clean up contaminated sediment.
Gale Document Number:CJ160306675