S. 2926: New York-New Jersey Watershed Protection Act

This bill, titled the New York-New Jersey Watershed Protection Act, aims to establish a program focused on restoring and protecting the New York-New Jersey Watershed. The primary goals of the bill include promoting coordinated efforts in restoration and protection activities to enhance fish and wildlife habitats, improve water quality, and address environmental justice in impacted communities.

Key Components of the Bill

• Creation of a Watershed Restoration Program: The bill mandates the establishment of a New York-New Jersey Watershed Restoration Program within 180 days after the bill’s enactment. This program will be nonregulatory and will aim to synchronize restoration and protection activities among various governmental and conservation entities.
• Purposes of the Program: The program will focus on several actions, including:
  • Coordinating restoration activities across federal, state, and local levels.
  • Improving water quality for the welfare of fish and wildlife.
  • Implementing natural climate solutions to enhance community resilience.
  • Encouraging public involvement, particularly in marginalized communities.
  • Supporting scientific research and monitoring environmental quality.

Grant Program Establishment

• Creation of a Grant Program: The bill also sets up a voluntary New York-New Jersey Watershed Restoration Grant Program, which will provide competitive matching grants to various entities including state and tribal governments and nonprofit organizations. This will facilitate coordinated restoration efforts.
• Funding Criteria: Grants will be awarded based on the ability of proposed actions to achieve specified purposes of the overall restoration efforts, including addressing priority needs within the Watershed.
• Cost-Sharing Arrangement: The federal share of costs under the grant program will typically cover up to 50% of project costs, but it can be raised to 90% or even 100% for small or disadvantaged communities experiencing financial hardship.

Engagement and Consultation

The Secretary of the Interior will be responsible for establishing the program and will consult with various stakeholders, including federal agencies, state governors, and local entities involved in conservation efforts. This collaboration is intended to ensure that the implemented strategies reflect the needs and priorities of the communities affected by watershed issues.

Reporting and Accountability

The Secretary is required to submit annual reports to Congress detailing the activities funded under the act and progress made in achieving the program's objectives. Additionally, the bill prohibits federal ownership of lands acquired under this act unless it is promptly transferred to the appropriate entities.

Funding Provisions

The bill authorizes appropriations of $20 million annually from 2026 to 2031 to support these activities, with a minimum of 75% allocated to the grant program. The goal is to ensure that these funds supplement rather than replace existing conservation funding in the Watershed.

Sunset Provision

The act is designed to be in effect until October 1, 2031, unless further legislative action is taken to extend or amend it.

Relevant Companies

• None found