U.S. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) introduced a bipartisan bill on February 13 to reauthorize conservation programs for the Delaware River Basin, which serves as a critical water source for millions and supports a $22 billion economy across several states. The Delaware River Basin Restoration Program Reauthorization Act of 2025, H.R. 1304, co-sponsored by Rep. Dwight Evans (D-PA) and 14 others, aims to extend the program until 2032, expand the basin’s definition to include Maryland, and prioritize projects benefiting small, rural, and disadvantaged communities. Since its inception in 2016, the restoration program has generated significant federal grants and leveraged investments for conservation projects. The bill, endorsed by the Coalition for the Delaware River Watershed, emphasizes long-term economic and ecological benefits. Fitzpatrick and Evans highlighted the importance of bipartisan support for protecting and restoring this essential resource.
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Fitzpatrick’s Bipartisan Bill Boosts Delaware River Basin Restoration Efforts
By Terrain News
