Everglades Restoration Receives Final Congressional Approval

"Today’s action by the U.S. House of Representatives sends a clear message that preserving our nation’s ecological treasures is a high priority. Both Republicans and Democrats in Washington have joined Governor Jeb Bush, who successfully navigated this milestone effort through Florida's legislative process and garnered broad bipartisan support. The State of Florida and its many partners in this endeavor realized that we had to act now in order to save what remains of America’s Everglades.

"This is far more than a replumbing job. Congress has taken a giant step forward in preserving the habitats of 68 endangered species by ensuring that environmental concerns will be given priority for the re-direction of 1.7 billion gallons of water per day from the sea to the ecosystem.

"Years from now, each and every member who voted for this historic legislation will be able to look back and proudly recall just where they stood on this day. They will remember that they stood on the side of all Americans and all living things. They will continue to have our gratitude."