Federal Policy

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Climate Statement: Inflation Reduction Act

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Trenton, NJ (August 16, 2022) - Historic climate legislation, known as the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 (H.R.5376) was passed in both chambers, and signed into law by President Biden.

“The impacts of climate change are already being seen and felt across the Delaware River Basin, which threaten over 13.3 million people who rely on the waters of the Basin. It is essential that we forge a path forward to reduce the impacts of climate change on our communities and limit the devastation in the future,” said Kelly Knutson, Director of the Coalition for the Delaware River Watershed (CDRW). “We applaud Congress in addressing the urgency of a global climate crisis and look forward to supporting the administration on implementation. The Coalition recognizes this step forward and will continue to advocate for additional policies to further protect the region’s natural resources.”

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House Passes the Delaware River Basin Conservation Reauthorization Act 

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Trenton, NJ (July 21, 2022) - Late last week in a 220-206 vote, the House passed the Delaware River Basin Conservation Reauthorization Act (DRBCA), included in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The Coalition applauds the made in order amendment that was offered by Rep Evans (PA), Rep Fitzpatrick (PA) and Rep Blunt Rochester (DE) to the NDAA.

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House Passes Recovering America’s Wildlife Act

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In a 231-190 vote on June 14, 2022, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Recovering America’s Wildlife Act (RAWA).

This legislation will dedicate $1.4 billion annually to proactive, locally-led efforts to recover thousands of at-risk wildlife species, while creating jobs and prioritizing the outdoor recreation economy at a time when our country and planet are facing a biodiversity crisis.

Testimony for the Delaware River Basin Conservation Act, Coalition for the Delaware River Watershed

The below testimony from Kelly Knutson, Director of the Coalition for the Delaware River Watershed, was submitted for both hearing records in the Senate Environment and Public Works committee along with the House Natural Resource subcommittee on Water, Oceans, and Wildlife.

On behalf of the Coalition for the Delaware River Watershed, I write in support of S. 3767 ― the Delaware River Basin Conservation Reauthorization Act ― which provides a framework and resources for advancing protection and restoration of the ecologically and economically significant Delaware River Basin.

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Senator Carper and Governor Carney Join Conservation Organizations to Highlight Christina River Project Supported by Delaware Watershed Conservation Fund  

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Wilmington, DE (August 20, 2021) – U.S. Senator Tom Carper and Delaware Governor John Carney joined conservation partners in Wilmington today to celebrate the Christiana and Brandywine River restoration and resiliency project funded by the Delaware Watershed Conservation Fund. Another important step in the on-going work to improve Wilmington’s riverfront area with clean healthy rivers and attractive places for people and wildlife.

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Senate Passes Infrastructure Bill: Includes Investments in Delaware River Basin Restoration Efforts

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(TRENTON) - In a 69-30 vote, the U.S. Senate has passed a $1.2 trillion bipartisan infrastructure package, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.

Various ecosystem restoration programs are listed in the bill, including $26 million of supplemental funding for the Delaware River Basin to be administered by the US Fish and Wildlife Service over five years.

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American Rescue Plan Funds - An Opportunity for Historical Water Infrastructure Investment

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The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 provides $350 billion dollars in emergency funding for state, local, territorial, and Tribal governments which can be utilized to invest in water infrastructure. Municipal leaders are beginning to discuss the use of American Rescue Plan funds. This is an opportunity for Coalition member organizations to urge state and local governments to prioritize investing in water infrastructure projects to meet the demands for safe, accessible water and sewer services in the face of the climate crisis.

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Biden FY22 Budget Includes Funding for the Delaware River Basin Restoration Program

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(TRENTON, NJ) - President Biden’s Fiscal Year 2022 budget includes a proposed $10 million for the Delaware River Basin Restoration Program. In response, Coalition for the Delaware River Watershed Director, Sandra Meola, issued the following statement:

“The Coalition for the Delaware River Watershed is thrilled that the President’s fiscal year 2022 proposed budget includes a $10 million request for the Delaware River Basin Restoration Program. This inclusion in a President’s budget is a historic first for the Program and amplifies the immense need for investment in our region to improve water quality, resiliency, wildlife habitat, and access to outdoor recreation.”

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