Charleston Leader

U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito, the Ranking Member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, spoke on the Senate floor to commend the passage of the Thomas R. Carper Water Resources Development Act of 2024 (WRDA). The bill received significant bipartisan support, passing in the House with a vote of 399-18 and in the Senate by 97-1. It now awaits the President's signature to become law.

Capito highlighted key aspects of WRDA during her speech. "I rise today in strong support of the House amendment to S. 4367," she stated, emphasizing that "the enactment of biennial water resources legislation over the last 10 years has been critical to addressing the nation's water resources needs."

The legislation aims to authorize crucial water resource studies and projects nationwide, focusing on navigation, flood protection, and environmental improvements. Capito noted that it maintains flexibility for unique challenges across different regions.

She also pointed out specific benefits for West Virginia, referencing past flooding events and future projects aimed at flood risk management in areas like the Kanawha River Basin. Additionally, she mentioned efforts related to smaller projects for emergency protection and restoration.

Capito expressed satisfaction with provisions related to economic development through reauthorization of EDA programs for fiscal years 2025 to 2029. She stressed its importance for coal communities affected by industry downturns.

In closing her remarks, Capito thanked colleagues and staff involved in drafting and supporting this legislation: "I want to extend my appreciation to the EPW Subcommittee on Transportation and Infrastructure... I strongly encourage my colleagues to support the House amendment."