Washington, D.C. — Florida Congressman Daniel Webster, R-Clermont, released the following statement after voting to pass S. 4367, the Thomas R. Carper Water Resources Development Act of 2024 (WRDA).
 
“With miles of coastline, vital waterways, and a robust economy tied to tourism, fishing, and trade, water is critical to the state of Florida,” said Rep. Webster, a senior member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. “Throughout my public service, I have advocated for policies that support local projects and ensure that our state’s unique water needs are prioritized. WRDA 2024 will help advance locally driven projects that empower Florida’s communities and growing economy, all while protecting and preserving our states’ precious natural resources.
 
The Thomas R. Carper Water Resources Development Act of 2024 is the result of months-long negotiations within the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and then with the U.S. Senate, with Congressman Webster being a leading voice for Florida throughout the process, securing a number of priorities for the state. 
 
Highlights of WRDA2024 include:

• A 2-year pause on a US Army Corps policy change affecting hurricane and storm resilience. This will allow more than two dozen previously authorized, critical beach nourishment and restoration projects throughout Florida to move forward that were stalled due to bureaucratic red tape.
• Protection of Everglades water policy and continued compliance with current Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Project (CERP).
• $320 million for the Corps to provide financial assistance to Florida for design and construction of the North Feeder Stormwater Treatment Area.
• $1.1 billion for deepening Tampa Harbor to improve navigation for related channels.
• $2.1 billion for ecosystem restoration in the Everglades.
• Authorization for the Lake Okeechobee Watershed Restoration Project.