Statement from EDF President Fred Krupp on Inclusion of Gulf Restoration Funds in Federal Transportation Package

Fred Krupp, President of Environmental Defense Fund, released the following statement today in response to news that the RESTORE Act would be included in the final conference report of the Transportation Bill. The measure would dedicate $5 - $21 billion from fines paid by those responsible for the Gulf oil spill to the restoration of communities and natural ecosystems in the region.

“The RESTORE Act is a remarkable bipartisan accomplishment that will deliver lasting environmental and economic results for our fragile but resilient Gulf communities. It will spark one of the most ambitious environmental restoration projects in our country and improve the lives of everyone along the Gulf Coast. This is a big win for every American who values precious coastal wetlands, for our Gulf fishermen, and for the cultural fabric of communities that were devastated by this disaster.”