Wittman co-sponsors America's Conservation Enhancement Reauthorization Act of 2024

Virginia Rep. Rob Wittman (R-VA-1st District) has helped introduce bipartisan legislation that would reauthorize and enhance multiple conservation programs across the country.

The “America’s Conservation Enhancement Reauthorization Act of 2024,” or ACE Act, would fund programs aimed at protecting wetlands, reducing pollution in waterways, and preserving the habitats of at-risk species, among others. Wittman, Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-MI), Congresswoman Jen Kiggans (R-VA-2nd District), and Congressman Mike Thompson (D-CA) introduced the legislation jointly.

“As a former marine scientist, I know from experience how critical it is that we protect and manage our natural resources wisely,” said Wittman, whose district includes Henrico's western half. “I’m proud to introduce the America’s Conservation Enhancement Reauthorization Act, which continues record investment in our nation’s precious natural resources, including the Chesapeake Bay. By reauthorizing and enhancing these vital conservation programs, we are taking significant steps to support our agricultural communities, and preserve our wildlife, waters, and lands for future generations.”

Wittman is a co-chair of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Task Force and has worked on behalf of the district in numerous environmental advocacy roles.

The Chesapeake Bay Foundation, which supports the goals of the legislation, said in a statement that the ACE Act “would extend essential programs that fund community-led projects to restore and protect the Chesapeake Bay’s fisheries, wildlife, and waterways across the Bay region.”

“As we enter the next phase of the cleanup, it is critical that these programs have the authority and resources the ACE Reauthorization Act would provide to help Bay states meet the coming challenges,” said Keisha Sedlacek, the Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s federal director.