House Approves McCollum, Kelly Efforts to Combat Spread of Asian Carp

For Immediate Release: October 23, 2013
Contact: Maria Reppas, (202) 225-6631 / (202) 527-0149 maria.reppas@mail.house.gov

Washington, DC – Today, the House of Representatives approved an amendment by Representatives Betty McCollum (D-MN) and Mike Kelly (R-PA) to help slow the spread of Asian carp in the Upper Mississippi and Ohio River. Their amendment was added by voice vote to the Water Resource Reform Development Act (H.R. 3080).

“Asian carp have the ability to destroy ecosystems and devastate recreational areas,” said Congresswoman McCollum. “Local and state officials are trying to tackle Asian carp, but they can’t do it alone. This amendment directs federal agencies to work in partnership with city, state, and regional efforts to confront the spread of Asian carp.”

“I was glad to work with Congresswoman McCollum to pass today’s critical amendment for the sake of protecting millions of Americans from the spread of Asian Carp. Our bipartisan amendment will help stop this dangerous invasive species from devastating the Great Lakes region and crippling a $7 billion commercial and recreational fishing industry, along with all the jobs and livelihoods that go with it. This important fight showcases how both parties and different levels of government can work together and is emblematic of how Americans want their government to run,” said Congressman Kelly.

The McCollum - Kelly amendment is similar to the bipartisan Strategic Response to Asian Carp Invasion Act (H.R. 358), which establishes a coordinated effort to reduce the spread of Asian carp in the Upper Mississippi and Ohio River.

The Senate version of Water Resource Development Act contains a similar amendment to confront the threat of Asian carp. In May 2013, the Senate unanimously passed that amendment, which was offered by Senators Brown (D-OH), Toomey (R-PA), and Casey (D-PA).

Congresswoman Betty McCollum serves on the House Appropriations Committee. She is Democratic Co-Chair of the Congressional Native American Caucus.

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