Tonko, Malliotakis, Velázquez, Booker & Gillibrand Lead NY-NJ Delegates Introducing Watershed Protection Bill

WASHINGTON, DC-In recognition of World Rivers Day, celebrated Sunday the 28^th, Representatives Paul D. Tonko (NY-20) and Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11) and Nydia Velázquez (NY-7) reintroduced the New York-New Jersey Watershed Protection Act, bipartisan legislation that restores and protects the vital water resources of the Hudson, Mohawk, and Raritan Rivers and their tributaries.

The legislation is also being introduced in the Senate by Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY).

"When we invest in protecting our rivers and waterways, the ripple effects and benefits are endless-from protecting communities from flood risks and supporting local wildlife, to improving water quality and driving economic growth," Congressman Tonko said. "Despite these great benefits, and despite being the most populous watershed in the nation, our New York-New Jersey Watershed has been grossly underfunded. Our bipartisan NY-NJ Watershed Protection Act seeks to right that wrong and ensure this iconic waterway can thrive for decades to come. I'm thankful to my colleagues who have joined me in this bipartisan effort and who recognize the environmental economic and community significance of protecting our watershed."

"New York and New Jersey share nearly 500 miles of coastline that play a critical role in generating billions in revenue, promoting tourism, and protecting our communities from storm surges and rising seas," Malliotakis said. "In recent years, hazardous waste, chemicals, and untreated wastewater have diminished the quality of water in the NY-NJ watershed, putting our already vulnerable waterways at risk. I'm proud to have joined my colleagues in cosponsoring this critical piece of legislation that supports federal restoration efforts, improves our water quality, and mitigates flood risks in our communities."

"Our waterways are central to the lives of millions of New Yorkers. They protect our neighborhoods from flooding, support small businesses, and provide places for families to gather and enjoy the outdoors," said Congresswoman Nydia M. Velázquez. "Unfortunately, too many communities across our state are still dealing with consequences of years of pollution and neglect. This bill will deliver the federal investment needed to restore these waters, promote environmental justice, and ensure future generations inherit cleaner, healthier rivers and coastlines."

"The New York-New Jersey Watershed is an essential resource that supports our economy and millions of people across our region. This bill provides the necessary funding for coordinated restoration efforts and prioritizes frontline communities," said Senator Booker. "I'm proud to join my colleagues in introducing legislation that will protect fish and wildlife habitat, improve water quality, improve climate resilience and mitigate flood risk, and increase educational opportunities and public access to the watershed."

"Our waterways are critical to the health of our communities and the strength of our economy," said Senator Gillibrand. "As the New York-New Jersey Watershed recovers from legacy pollution and faces increasing challenges - from harmful algal blooms to extreme rainfall - it is essential that we invest in restoration and fund effective watershed management and conservation strategies. I will keep fighting to get this critical legislation across the finish line so that our economy and communities across New York can continue to benefit from these vital waterways for generations to come."

"The New York-New Jersey Watershed Protection Act will help cleanup and restore our waterways from the Hudson River to Jamaica Bay to reduce pollution and ensure the longevity of these precious resources for generations to come," said Democratic Leader Schumer. "New York's beautiful rivers and waterways generate billions in economic activity, provide critical pathways for both commerce and recreation, and improve the quality of life for millions of residents across the state. I am proud to co-sponsor this important piece of legislation, which aims to address negative impacts of legacy pollution while placing the needs of communities affected by environmental pollution at the forefront."

"More people rely on the New York-New Jersey watershed than any other in our country, but it still goes without the support it needs to deliver for the communities it serves," said Senator Andy Kim. "When we're talking about taking care of these waterways, we're talking about our environment, local economies, and most importantly millions of people's health and well-being. Let's come together to deliver the resources they need and deserve."

The New York-New Jersey Watershed Protection Act of 2025:

• Establishes a new program, administered by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service and modeled on other successful regional watershed restoration programs, to coordinate restoration efforts
• Ensures that restoration efforts follow science-based principles to protect fish and wildlife habitat, improve water quality, increase public access to the watershed, mitigate flood risks, and develop public outreach and educational activities.
• Creates a restoration grant program for community-led restoration activities, prioritizing the needs of frontline communities experiencing environmental injustice.
• Authorizes $20,000,000 annually for watershed restoration grants through Fiscal Year 2031.

Organizations that have stated their support of the legislation include: Riverkeeper; Waterfront Alliance; The Nature Conservancy; National Parks Conservation Association; Hudson River Foundation; Environmental Defense Fund; Scenic Hudson; New York League of Conservation Voters; and New Jersey League of Conservation Voters.

The legislation is cosponsored by Representatives: Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-1), Dan Goldman (D-NY-10), Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ-5), Thomas Kean Jr. (R-NJ-7), George Latimer (D-NY-16), Mike Lawler (R-NY-17), John Mannion (D-NY-22), LaMonica McIver (D-NJ-10), Gregory Meeks (D-NY-5), Grace Meng (D-NY-6), Donald Norcross (D-NJ-1), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY-14), Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ-6), Nellie Pou (D-NJ-9), Josh Riley (D-NY-19), Pat Ryan (D-NY-18), Mikie Sherrill (D-NJ-11), Ritchie Torres (D-NY-15), Jefferson Van Drew (R-NJ-2), and Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ-12).

A full list of supporting organizations and their statements can be found HERE.

A fact sheet on the bill can be found HERE.