Rep. Hodes and Rep. Welch Introduce Bill to Fund Conservation Efforts in the Upper Connecticut River Valley

Press Release

Rep. Hodes and Rep. Welch Introduce Bill to Fund Conservation Efforts in the Upper Connecticut River Valley

Rep. Paul Hodes (NH-2) and Rep. Peter Welch (VT-AL) introduced legislation today that will fund conservation efforts in the Upper Connecticut River Valley, which lies at the heart of the two adjacent districts.

"The Connecticut River is the economic lifeblood of the communities in this region, and deserves our protection," Rep. Hodes said. "We are working across state lines and across party lines to get this done."

Welch said, "This bi-state initiative will be a major boost to promoting the stewardship of the Connecticut River, one of Vermont's and New Hampshire's most vital natural resources."

The bill would authorize an annual budget of $1 million federal dollars to fund conservation efforts in the watershed, which is New England's largest ecosystem.

The money would be directed by the Connecticut River Joint Commissions.

The "Upper Connecticut River Partnership Act" was also introduced in the Senate by Vermont and New Hampshire's Senators. Should both bills pass, the legislation would go directly to the President's desk.

The legislation was introduced in the previous Congress and passed the Senate. It failed in the House.

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