Henrico Times

Congressman Rob Wittman announced that the America's Conservation Enhancement (ACE) Reauthorization Act has been signed into law by the president. The legislation aims to enhance the preservation of natural resources, wildlife, and habitats in America while improving accountability and transparency for funded projects.

The bill passed the House earlier this month as an amendment to S.3791, which had already cleared the Senate. It was introduced in June by Representatives Wittman, Debbie Dingell, Jen Kiggans, and Mike Thompson.

"Those who know me well know how much I love the great outdoors – from fishing, hunting, to just spending time with my grandkids on our beautiful public lands and waterways in Virginia’s Northern Neck," said Congressman Wittman. "To protect these precious natural resources, I know how important it is that we invest in conservation programs like those authorized by my America’s Conservation Enhancement Reauthorization Act."

House Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman praised Wittman's leadership on conservation issues: "This legislation will support vital conservation programs while responsibly balancing the needs of working communities."

Congresswoman Dingell highlighted the urgency of addressing biodiversity challenges: "The United States is in the midst of an unprecedented biodiversity crisis, and we need to act now and invest substantively in conservation."

Congresswoman Kiggans emphasized the importance of protecting local habitats: "Coastal Virginia is blessed to be home to the Chesapeake Bay... The America’s Conservation Enhancement Reauthorization Act of 2024 will ensure we can continue to protect important wildlife and natural resources across the country."

Congressman Thompson noted his long-standing support for U.S. conservation efforts: "Reauthorizing our most critical wildlife conservation programs just makes sense."

The ACE Reauthorization Act includes several key provisions such as reauthorizing the North American Wetlands Conservation Act and supporting partnerships through the National Fish Habitat Conservation Through Partnerships Act.

Chesapeake Bay Foundation Federal Director Keisha Sedlacek expressed gratitude for Rep. Wittman's leadership: "The America’s Conservation Enhancement (ACE) Reauthorization Act will mobilize resources to improve water quality, protect vital habitats, and provide more recreational opportunities across the Bay region."

Andrew Wilkins from the National Wildlife Federation stated that swift passage illustrates bipartisan consensus on habitat restoration.

Ducks Unlimited CEO Adam Putnam acknowledged Congress's efforts: "From national initiatives like NAWCA to regional partnerships like the Chesapeake Bay Program, this bill will strengthen our ability to conserve wetlands and other waterfowl habitat in all 50 states."

Glenn Hughes from the American Sportfishing Association emphasized benefits for anglers: "Reauthorizing these critical programs will result in direct and immediate benefits for our waterways, fish and recreational anglers."

Jeff Crane from The Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation celebrated its signing into law: "This legislation will bolster fish and wildlife conservation by reauthorizing key programs that are crucial to healthy habitats across the nation."

Before joining Congress, Wittman worked extensively in state government roles related to environmental health.