The Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) Act of 2024 unanimously passed through the Senate Committee on Environment & Public Works on Wednesday. 

The GLRI Act of 2024 would extend the GLRI another five years through 2031, and increase annual authorization levels from $475 million in 2026 to $500 million from 2027 through 2031.

Senators Vance (R-OH), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), and other members of the Great Lakes Task Force have spearheaded the passing of this legislation.

The initiative focuses federal and nonfederal efforts to stop the spread of carp and other invasive species, as well as restore coastline and habitats connecting our waterways. It also includes efforts to clean up environmentally damaged 'Areas of Concern' and prevent future contamination of the water and surrounding areas. 

Senator Vance, Co-Chair of the Senate Great Lakes Task Force said, "the Great Lakes are an invaluable asset to the people of Ohio – I'm proud to partner with Senator Stabenow on legislation that will continue to protect them for generations to come. The Great Lakes Restoration Initiative delivers the tools we need to fight invasive species, algal blooms, pollution, and other threats to the ecosystem. This is a commonsense, bipartisan effort that I encourage all of my colleagues to support."

The Great Lakes Task Force says contamination and water quality threats continue to stress the Great Lakes and its watersheds, as well as increasing pressure from new invasive species, erosion, and habitat destruction. The extension of the initiative ensures that vital efforts to protect the water can continue, and that there are preparations in place to address new and emerging threats to the lakes and waterways.