Rep. Harris’ First Bill in Congress to Prevent Harmful Chesapeake Bay Dead Zones

Washington, DC – Today, Rep. Andy Harris’ first bill - H.R. 2484 Harmful Algal Blooms and Hypoxia Research and Control Amendments Act of 2011- was approved by the Energy and Environment Subcommittee. The bill will likely be considered by the full Science, Space and Technology Committee later this month.

“The Chesapeake Bay is a national environmental treasure that so many Marylanders depend on for jobs,” said Rep. Andy Harris. “During these tough economic times, it is important that we continue research on the latest technologies to prevent further damage to one of Maryland’s most important economic engines.”

The bill reauthorizes and modifies the program, led by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).  Under the bill, increased emphasis is placed on developing technologies to control and respond to Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) and the dead zones caused through oxygen depletion.  In particular, a new streamlined protocol will help move technology from the laboratory to the field.  An information clearinghouse will also include toxin standards for comparative research.