The New York-New Jersey Watershed Protection Act of 2025 (H.R. 5762), introduced on October 14, 2025, aims to establish a nonregulatory program focused on restoring and protecting the New York-New Jersey Watershed. Key components include:
-
Program Establishment: A Watershed Restoration Program will launch within 180 days of enactment to coordinate restoration efforts across governmental and conservation partners.
-
Objectives:
- Enhance habitats.
- Improve water quality.
- Promote recreational access.
- Utilize climate solutions and engage communities in environmental education.
- Increase research on watershed management.
-
Grant Program: A competitive grant program will allocate federal funds (up to $20 million annually from 2026 to 2031), supporting restoration efforts, especially for small or disadvantaged communities.
-
Consultation and Reporting: The Secretary of the Interior must consult stakeholders and report annually to Congress. Provisions will expire by October 1, 2031, unless renewed.
- Federal Land Regulations: The federal government cannot retain land acquired under this act, ensuring swift transfer to authorized entities.
Relevant companies like NextEra Energy and Duke Energy may need to adjust operations based on these new regulations. Representative Paul Tonko has introduced multiple bills, including this watershed act.
