Rep. Bonamici & Science Committee Advance Bipartisan Legislation to Tackle Harmful Algal Blooms

Washington, D.C. – Today, the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology advanced Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici’s Harmful Algal Blooms and Hypoxia Research and Control Act, which protects Oregon and communities across the country from the effects of harmful algae.

“Algal blooms threaten Oregon’s economic and environmental ecosystem,” said Congresswoman Bonamici, Ranking Member on the Environment Subcommittee. “My legislation represents a bipartisan effort to help ensure the passage of this vital law, which includes a comprehensive strategy to protect Oregon’s waterways and those of communities across the country.”

Harmful algal blooms have devastating effects on aquatic plants and animals as well as on human health. The overproduction of algae can threaten communities that rely on fishing, shellfish harvesting, and tourism. Last year in Oregon, lakes, ponds, and reservoirs were closed for a combined 731 days due to harmful algal bloom events.

Rather than introduce a new program, the bill outlines greater collaboration between state and local governments in order to address the onslaught of harmful algal blooms in coastal areas and throughout other parts of the country.

“I worked closely with my colleagues to ensure this legislation passes the House. I have heard from coastal communities, academic researchers, and the fishing community, all of whom have emphasized the importance of reauthorizing this program,” Bonamici said. “We need a plan to protect communities from the damage that harmful algal blooms can inflict on their economy and environment. I urge my colleagues to support this legislation, which will deepen our understanding of harmful algal blooms and develop a stronger strategy to help communities better predict and reduce the number of harmful algal blooms and hypoxic events.”

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