FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 4, 2025
CONTACT: Jo Knight, jo@conservefish.org

Reps. Pingree and Wittman Introduce Legislation for Waterfront Infrastructure, Access, and Climate Resiliency

Arlington, VA – Rep. Chellie Pingree (D-ME) and Rep. Rob Wittman (R-VA) reintroduced the “Keep America’s Waterfronts Working Act” in the 119th Congress. The bill will establish a Working Waterfront Grant Program to help preserve and expand access to coastal waters for water-dependent businesses, create a Working Waterfronts Preservation Loan Fund to make funds available through state governments for working waterfront improvement projects, and establish a Working Waterfront Task Force at the Department of Commerce to identify and prioritize critical needs for working waterfronts and to address the impacts of climate change.

Robert C. Vandermark, executive director of the Marine Fish Conservation Network, released the following statement:

“The Keep America’s Waterfronts Working Act is welcomed legislation for restoring and maintaining waterfront infrastructure and ensuring ocean access for commercial businesses, recreation, tourism, and traditional uses. This bill seeks to preserve and expand waterfront access for all ocean users, as well as identify and prioritize the needs of working waterfronts in the face of threats, such as climate change, that could have lasting impacts on coastal communities, local jobs, and regional economies. The Marine Fish Conservation Network thanks Reps. Pingree and Wittman for supporting the people and communities across our nation who depend on accessible ocean resources and thriving working waterfronts.”

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The Marine Fish Conservation Network is a coalition of commercial and recreational fishing associations, regional and national conservation groups, aquaria, and marine science organizations committed to sustaining fish populations, healthy marine ecosystems, and robust fishing communities.