WASHINGTON - Today, Congressman Byron Donalds (R-FL) announced the reintroduction of the Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) Essential Forecasting Act.

"This bill utilizes federal resources for tackling the environmental and economic challenges brought on by HABs in Southwest Florida and throughout America. Over the last 60 years, these events have increased substantially––impacting local economies, our nation's ecosystems, and the American people's health.

“Safeguarding public health and our coastal ecosystems requires the collective collaboration of federal, state, and local governments. This necessary legislation bolsters the federal government's role in combating HABs throughout the United States."

The bill amends the Harmful Algal Bloom and Hypoxia Research and Control Act of 1998 to ensure that during a lapse in appropriations, essential services relating to HABs receive critical federal funding.

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