WASHINGTON, D.C. — This week, Congressman Byron Donalds (FL-19) reintroduced H.R. 1008, the Combat Harmful Algal Blooms Act, which allows for the inclusion of ‘algal blooms’ to the applicability of Major Disaster Declarations to preserve vital marine ecosystems.

“Water is Florida’s most important natural resource and serves as the heart & soul of Southwest Florida,” said Rep. Donalds. “I’m committed to advancing bipartisan policies that promote the preservation of our waterways against potential long-term damage resulting from harmful algal blooms. This bill gives state and local leaders the opportunity to request federal funding to protect their waterways for future generations to come. I’m thankful for my colleagues’ support in this effort to protect our nation’s marine ecosystems.”

“Protecting our pristine natural resources is not a partisan issue.  Unfortunately, communities throughout the state of Florida have seen the devastation that harmful algae blooms and red tide can have on our eco-system and tourism-related industries,” said Rep. Gus Bilirakis, who serves as Co-Chairman of the House Travel and Tourism Caucus. “Florida’s combined recreational and commercial fisheries alone generate an estimated $27.2 billion and support nearly 300,000 jobs. When these disasters occur, Florida needs to be able to access the same emergency resources that are provided to help Americans recover from other natural disasters.  Additionally, I’ll continue to support efforts to determine how best to prevent, treat and mitigate these conditions should they occur in the future.” 

“Florida’s waterways are integral to our economic growth and prosperity,” said Rep. Waltz. “As Floridians, we have seen firsthand the devastating effects that algal blooms and red tides have had on our coastal communities. Moving forward, we must work together at every level of government, including federal, to better protect Florida’s beautiful waterways and our way of life.”

“Our unique and beautiful ecosystem in Florida is one of America’s treasures. Not only is it the center of a robust tourism industry, it is home to thriving fisheries and precious minerals,” said Rep. Luna. “Algal blooms and events like red tide are a disastrous threat to this vibrant resource, which is why it’s extremely important we do what we can to protect it and conserve our waterways: for our livelihoods, local economy and flourishing habitat!” 

“Florida’s waterways are critical to our state’s tourism industry and ecosystems. In recent years, algal blooms have had devastating effects on our environment, wildlife and economy so it makes sense to ensure they are eligible for disaster relief funding,” said Rep. Franklin. “I’m pleased to join Rep. Donalds and my Florida colleagues in supporting this bill so we can keep our state’s water clean and beautiful for generations to come.”

“Time after time, Treasure Coast communities have seen the utter disaster toxic algal blooms cause for our environment, economy, and public health.” said Rep. Mast. “Much of it could be prevented if it weren’t for the federal government’s mismanagement of waterways in Florida.  By forcing the federal government to pay for some of the damage caused, this bill will force our government to think twice before they discharge toxic water into our communities.”

“Water is not only a vital resource but a way of life in Florida,” said Rep. Cherfilus-McCormick. “Floridians have seen the detrimental impacts that harmful algal blooms have on our communities. I am proud to work in a bipartisan effort to make sure Florida’s waters are protected for generations to come.”

“Just as we respond to a tornado and hurricane, we must respond the same way to Algal Bloom," said Rep. Moskowitz. "We all have seen first hand the damage that algal bloom and red tide can have on our local economy and local communities. By empowering FEMA to respond to the environmental impact caused by algal bloom, we will help local economies and ensure our waterways are protected for future generations to come."

Co-Sponsors of this legislation include Representatives Diaz-Balart (FL-26); Franklin (FL-18); Posey (FL-08); Wasserman Schultz (FL-25); Bilirakis (FL-12); Frost (FL-10); Luna (FL-13); Frankel (FL-22); Waltz (FL-06); Moskowitz (FL-23); Mast (FL-21); Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20); Salazar (FL-27); and Castor (FL-14).

Read this legislation in its entirety HERE.

Donalds Introduces Bipartisan Combat Harmful Algal Blooms Act