Henrico Times

Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed Congressman Rob Wittman's America's Conservation Enhancement (ACE) Reauthorization Act as an amendment to S.3791. This legislation aims to bolster the preservation of natural resources, wildlife, and habitats across America.

"Before coming to Congress, I spent 20 years as a shellfish specialist monitoring water quality and environmental health issues in the Chesapeake Bay watershed," said Congressman Wittman. "From this experience, I know how critical it is that we protect and manage our natural resources wisely. I couldn’t be more proud to see my America's Conservation Enhancement Reauthorization Act pass the House. Through this legislation, we will continue record investment in our nation’s precious natural resources, support our agricultural communities, and preserve our wildlife, waters, and lands for generations to come. I urge my colleagues in the Senate to pass this bill so we can swiftly send the ACE Reauthorization Act to the president’s desk."

Congressman Wittman serves as co-chair of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Task Force and works on bipartisan legislation for conservation efforts nationwide.

The ACE Reauthorization Act includes several key pieces of legislation previously introduced or co-led by Rep. Wittman:

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

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

- The Chesapeake Bay Program Reauthorization Act: Continues efforts to reduce pollution in the Bay through Fiscal Year 2030.

- The Chesapeake Bay Gateways and Watertrails Network Reauthorization Act: Enhances public access to the Bay's habitats.

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

The bill also introduces measures for accountability and transparency of funded projects.

Before his congressional career, Congressman Wittman worked for 26 years in state government roles related to environmental health.