Scalise, Richmond Secure Funding for Coastal Restoration, Dredging Projects

WASHINGTON, D.C.—House Republican Whip Steve Scalise and Congressman Cedric Richmond today successfully passed three amendments to the House Energy and Water Appropriations Bill that will ensure critical funding for coastal restoration and Mississippi River dredging projects in Louisiana.

"Working together, Congressman Richmond and I secured critical funding for coastal restoration and dredging projects in Southeast Louisiana,"said Whip Scalise."By including funding for the Louisiana Coastal Area program, coastal restoration projects that utilize dredged sediment are able to move forward ensuring that this material is used to rebuild our vanishing coast, not just wastefully dumped in the Gulf of Mexico. Additionally, increased funding for dredging ensures that the 500 million tons of cargo in international trade that moves along the Mississippi River will continue to thrive. Today's vote sends a strong message that restoring Louisiana's coast and maintaining our waterways are funded as national priorities."

"Today's success in the House with the passage of key coastal restoration amendments signals success and a step forward for Louisiana," Rep. Richmond said. "Congressman Scalise and I have fought tirelessly for Louisianans to get the funding and protection they deserve. Securing increased funding from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for future flood protection and sustained waterway maintenance opens the door for a more secure Louisiana. With hurricane season serving as a reminder to rebuild our coast, increased funding and additional resources from these amendments are key to ensuring the safety of Louisiana residents."

Background on the amendments:

• Increases funding by $4 million to address urgent dredging needs on the Mississippi River.
• Expresses Congressional intent that an additional $75 million should be allocated for Corps dredging activities.
• Increases funding by $5 million for the Louisiana Coastal Area program, which uses dredged sediment to rebuild coastal wetlands.