Washington, DC - Today the President signed into law the Conference Report to the Water Resources Reform and Development Act of 2014 (WRRDA), bipartisan water resources legislation that cuts federal red tape and bureaucracy, streamlines the infrastructure project delivery process, fosters fiscal responsibility, and strengthens our water transportation networks to promote America’s competitiveness, prosperity, and economic growth.
WRRDA is legislation that was introduced in the House of Representatives by Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Bill Shuster (R-PA), Committee Ranking Member Nick J. Rahall, II (D-WV), Water Resources and Environment Subcommittee Chairman Bob Gibbs (R-OH), and Subcommittee Ranking Member Tim Bishop (D-NY). All four Members attended a signing ceremony at the White House today.
WRRDA authorizes the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to carry out its missions to develop, maintain, and support the Nation’s vital port and waterways infrastructure needs, and support effective and targeted flood protection and environmental restoration needs.
“WRRDA cuts red tape, reforms the bureaucracy, and accelerates the delivery of water resources infrastructure projects, but it does much more than that,” Shuster said. “This new law will help ensure the country has a modern, efficient transportation network, something that is fundamental to a stronger economy, keeping America competitive, and encouraging job growth. This is an immense accomplishment for the Congress and America.”
“This new law is not only a win for our national economy, but also for West Virginia’s coal operations and other critical industries in our state,” said Rahall. “It shows that things can still get done in Washington when leaders work through their differences in the best interests of those they represent. I’m hopeful it will serve as a model for future collaboration on the big issues we continue to face.”
“It has been a long road to get to this important day and I am pleased to join the President and members of the WRRDA conference committee to see this bill become law,” Gibbs said. “I am proud of the work we have accomplished together on behalf of the American people. WRRDA is a jobs bill that will help maintain our maritime transportation systems and keep our country globally competitive. This bill is a perfect example of what Congress can achieve through bipartisan cooperation and adherence to the principles that the American people support.”
“Protecting our water quality and improving the infrastructure associated with our waterways and coastlines is vitally important,” said Bishop. “The construction and other work performed under the auspices of WRRDA will not only strengthen our water infrastructure, but will create jobs and protect homes and communities as well as assets along our coasts. I thank my Transportation and Infrastructure Committee colleagues on both sides of the aisle for remaining committed to working in a bipartisan fashion to see this through. This is a shining example of what can be accomplished when we are willing to compromise to reach a common goal.”