By Congressman Nick LaLota
Recently, with overwhelming bipartisan support, Rep. Joe Courtney (D, CT-02) and I were able to secure the passage of our Long Island Sound Stewardship and Restoration Act. Our bill’s passage represents a critical step forward for environmental preservation and the economic vitality of our coastal communities. As a lifelong Long Islander, eleven-year Navy man, boater, Co-Chair of the Long Island Sound Caucus, and Congressman for the First Congressional District, I am deeply committed to ensuring the protection and restoration of the Long Island Sound, a natural treasure that is both an ecological marvel and an economic powerhouse.
The Sound is more than just a body of water; it is an integral part of our community’s identity, supporting over 1,200 species of invertebrates, 170 species of fish, and dozens of migratory bird species. Its waters also sustain commercial fishing, recreation, and tourism industries that are vital to the livelihoods of many in our district. However, decades of pollution and environmental neglect have taken their toll, threatening the health of this indispensable resource.
That is why I am proud to have worked alongside my colleague, Congressman Joe Courtney of Connecticut, to secure the reauthorization of the Long Island Sound Program. This legislation will provide the necessary funding and support to continue efforts to clean up the Sound, restore its ecosystems, and protect it for future generations.
The Act’s passage is a victory for bipartisanship and a testament to what can be achieved when we prioritize the well-being of our environment and our communities. The restoration of the Long Island Sound is not just an environmental issue; it is an economic one as well. By investing in the health of the Sound, we are investing in the prosperity and sustainability of our region.
I remain committed to ensuring that the resources provided by this Act are used effectively and efficiently. Together, we can safeguard the Long Island Sound, preserving its beauty and bounty for generations to come.
Congressman Nick LaLota (R, NY-01) is a lifelong Long Islander serving in the U.S. House of Representatives.
The First Congressional District contains the entire Townships of East Hampton, Riverhead, Shelter Island, Smithtown, Southampton, and Southold, as well as most of Huntington, and northern and eastern Brookhaven.
The First Congressional District office is located at 515 Hauppauge Road, Suite 3B, in Hauppauge, and can be reached at 631-289-1097. The Mobile Office is located at VFW Post 6249 at 109 King Road in Rocky Point. The Mobile Office is open Thursdays from 1:00p.m. to 5:00p.m. and can be reached at 631-289-1097. The Mobile Office is not an active mailbox.
