Steil Introduces Legislation to Protect Great Lakes, Provide Support for Community Harbors

WASHINGTON (June 5, 2024) - Congressman Bryan Steil (WI-01) today introduced the Revitalizing and Enhancing America’s Community Harbors (REACH) Act. This legislation would provide more opportunities for underserved harbors on the Great Lakes to access federal funds for badly needed water infrastructure projects, including breakwater repairs and dredging.

“In 2020, winter storms caused significant damage to the Racine Harbor breakwater. Since then, the community has struggled to make necessary repairs to protect the historic downtown, the Lake Michigan shoreline, and the harbor from storms,” said Steil. “This bill will open avenues for Racine, and other community harbors to receive federal assistance for critical water infrastructure projects.”

The REACH ACT requires 25% of funds to go towards projects at harbors within the Great Lakes Navigation System. Additionally, the bill allows non-federal, publicly owned harbors to qualify for supplemental funding.

Representatives Jack Bergman (MI-01), Lisa McClain (MI-09), John Moolenaar (MI-02), and Max Miller (OH-07) are cosponsors of this legislation.

NOTE: Steil brought attention to the REACH Act earlier this year when he testified before the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. Click here to watch.

CLICK HERE to read the bill.

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