Kaptur applauds progress on algal bloom legislation

Bill would spur federal strategic planning and guidance for local officials

WASHINGTON—Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur cheered progress yesterday on legislation to address algal blooms, which she co-sponsors with Rep. Bob Latta. The bill advanced through the Energy and Commerce Committee yesterday and may now be presented for consideration by the full House. This is the latest in a series of recent wins for this legislation, which would establish an accelerated federal government response to algal blooms. Senators Sherrod Brown and Rob Portman have introduced companion legislation in the Senate.

“Last year’s water crisis revealed major problems with our water security, and we continue to face the threat that this kind of environmental event could happen again,”said Kaptur. “To coordinate an effective response, state and local officials need clear guidance from authorities on safe consumption limits, testing protocols, and treatment options.”

Kaptur added, “Congress faltered on legislation to address this problem last year but bipartisan support is growing and today took a major step forward. I will continue to work to enact this legislation alongside fellow legislators Senators Brown and Portman and Representative Latta. As we enter another season of toxic blooms, we must do all we can to combat these events and the dangerous algal toxins that they add to our water.”

Representative Kaptur was recently elected to serve as a new Co-Chair of the House Great Lakes Task Force. She has sponsored algal bloom response legislation since the 2014 Lake Erie water crisis.

Contact: Matt Sonneborn, (202) 225-4146 or Matt.Sonneborn@mail.house.gov

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