Henrico Times

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Rob Wittman’s (R-VA-01) America’s Conservation Enhancement Reauthorization Act advanced out of the House Natural Resources Committee after receiving a hearing and markup. The bill is now eligible for a full House floor vote. This comprehensive legislation aims to enhance the preservation of America's natural resources, wildlife, and habitats.

“As a former marine scientist, I know how critical it is that we protect and manage our natural resources wisely,” said Rep. Wittman. “I’m proud to see my America's Conservation Enhancement Reauthorization Act gain momentum and support — this critical legislation will continue record investment in our nation’s precious natural resources, including the Chesapeake Bay, to support our agricultural communities and preserve our wildlife, waters, and lands for future generations.”

House Natural Resources Committee Chairman Bruce Westerman commented on the bill's importance: “As an avid hunter and outdoorsman, I’ve seen firsthand the importance of conservation programs for the health and longevity of our wildlife. Congressman Wittman also knows a thing or two about getting outdoors, and his legislation to reauthorize the ACE Act will support and enhance some of our country’s most successful conservation programs in Virginia and beyond. I’d like to thank him for being a tireless champion of sportsmen’s issues so that our hunters and fishermen will be able to enjoy the great outdoors for generations to come.”

The America's Conservation Enhancement Reauthorization Act includes several key provisions:

- **North American Wetlands Conservation Act**: Protects waterfowl, fish, wildlife resources, and wetland habitats while supporting local economies dependent on outdoor recreation.

- **National Fish Habitat Conservation Through Partnerships Act**: Strengthens partnerships to maintain healthy fish populations.

- **Chesapeake Bay Program Reauthorization Act**: Reauthorizes efforts to reduce pollution in the Chesapeake Bay through Fiscal Year 2025.

- **Chesapeake Bay Gateways and Watertrails Network Reauthorization Act**: Supports habitat improvement efforts.

- **Chesapeake Watershed Investments for Landscape Defense (WILD) Act**: Assists local entities in rehabilitating fish and wildlife habitats.

The bill also emphasizes accountability measures to ensure transparency in funded projects.

Endorsements have come from several organizations including the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, National Wildlife Federation, Ducks Unlimited, and American Sportfishing Association.

“The Bay cleanup effort is at a critical juncture,” said Chesapeake Bay Foundation Federal Director Keisha Sedlacek. “To meet the moment, it is essential that Congress extend the Bay restoration programs covered in this bill. We urge House leaders to recognize the bipartisan momentum behind the ACE Reauthorization Act.”

Andrew Wilkins from the National Wildlife Federation stated: “We’re pleased that the committee is marking up America's Conservation Enhancement Reauthorization Act... We encourage strong funding for this strong piece of legislation.”

Ducks Unlimited CEO Adam Putnam highlighted its importance: “Foundational programs like NAWCA combined with effective regional initiatives ensure this important legislation has something for hunters, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts across the country.”

Jeff Crane from CSF expressed gratitude towards bipartisan leadership moving forward with conservation priorities.

Glenn Hughes from American Sportfishing Association emphasized its significance for fisheries conservation.

Congressman Wittman serves as co-chair of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Task Force working on bipartisan efforts nationwide. Prior to Congress, he worked extensively in state government roles related to environmental health.

Read the full bill text here.

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