Fitzpatrick’s Delaware River Basin Conservation Reauthorization Bill Passes Unanimously Out of Committee

WASHINGTON, DC - Bipartisan, bicameral legislation led by Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1) achieved a significant milestone today, unanimously passing out of the House Committee on Natural Resources. H.R. 1395, the Delaware River Basin Conservation Reauthorization Act of 2023, will ensure the Delaware River Basin Restoration Program (DRBRP), which brings together the federal government and state and local partners to meet conservation needs throughout the watershed region, is authorized through 2030.

Since its enactment in 2016, this transformative legislation has awarded $72.1 million and generated $100 million in match to fund nearly 250 groundbreaking projects that will restore and preserve one of the nation's most vital watersheds. The reauthorization reinforces collaboration among federal, state, and local governments to advance restoration initiatives, ensuring the Delaware River Basin remains a cornerstone of ecological and economic vitality for generations to come.

The bill is endorsed by the Coalition for the Delaware River Watershed, underscoring its importance to the region and beyond.

House Committee on Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman (AR-4) remarked on the legislation being a model for conservation success:

"The Delaware River Basin is one of America's most successful examples of a clean and healthy working river. Thanks to the hard work from Congressman Fitzpatrick, today we are ensuring this important resource is properly stewarded for years to come."

Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick expressed his gratitude and commitment to advancing this essential conservation effort:

"The Delaware River is a lifeline for our communities in Bucks and Montgomery Counties and a treasured resource for our region. I am incredibly grateful to Chairman Westerman and the Committee on Natural Resources for moving this critical piece of legislation forward today. This bipartisan, bicameral effort ensures that federal funding continues to empower our state, local, and non-profit partners in their conservation and restoration efforts. Together, we are preserving this national treasure for future generations."

With unanimous committee support, this legislation continues to build momentum toward ensuring the Delaware River Basin remains a vibrant and thriving ecosystem that benefits the environment, economy, and communities it serves.

Read the text of the legislation HERE.

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