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Latta Reintroduces Bill to Examine Causes, Mitigation Efforts of Algal Blooms

Congressman Bob Latta (R-OH) today reintroduced H.R. 389, the Great Lakes & Fresh Water Algal Blooms Information Act, bipartisan legislation to examine the causes and current mitigation efforts of algal blooms in the Great Lakes, their tributaries and surface fresh waters. Congressman Latta previously introduced the legislation in the 113th Congress.

“The Great Lakes & Fresh Water Algal Blooms Information Act would create a central information system to study and monitor the health of our Great Lakes,” said Latta. “Last August’s water emergency highlighted the importance of keeping these vital resources healthy, and my legislation would establish a comprehensive database to help better determine the causes of harmful algal blooms, as well as the best ways to combat them, so we can protect these national treasures for generations to come.”  

Algal blooms, and especially toxin producing Harmful Algal Blooms (HAB), are a serious problem threatening the Great Lakes, particularly Lake Erie. The Great Lakes & Fresh Water Algal Blooms Information Act requires the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to create an electronic database for the voluntary submission of research and information regarding algal blooms causes and mitigation efforts in the Great Lakes by accredited entities. NOAA will also be required to report these important findings to Congress.

A copy of the legislation can be found here. Latta also reintroduced the Drinking Water Protection Act last week to protect the health of our drinking water. Both pieces of legislation are thoughtful solutions, developed with input from key stakeholders, to address the challenges experienced during last year’s water emergency in Northwest Ohio.  

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