SALAZAR REINTRODUCES REEF ACT TO PROTECT FLORIDA’S COASTAL ECOSYSTEM

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar (R-FL) and Congressman Ed Case (D-HI) reintroduced the Reusing Equipment for Environmental Fortification, or REEF Act. The REEF Act incentivizes retired Navy ships to be repurposed into artificial reefs, boosting marine environments, and creating recreational and economic opportunities in the process. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) introduced the Senate companion to the House bill.

“Miami’s coasts are filled with history and wildlife. This bill allows us to use our retired Navy ships to protect South Florida’s beautiful coastal ecosystems for decades to come,” said Rep. Salazar. “I am proud to support this bipartisan bill with my colleague to continue making good use of our nation’s military infrastructure.”

“Florida’s marine ecosystems are of vital importance to the state’s biodiversity, economy, and way of life. The REEF Act would create new opportunities to utilize retiring navy ships as artificial reefs to the benefit of marine life and Florida’s tourism-based economy,” said Senator Marco Rubio.

“Creating artificial reefs using excess naval vessels can help restore and preserve our fragile ocean ecosystem and create opportunities for those who want to explore the biodiversity that would surround a sunken structure,” said Congressman Case. “There are a number of structures, including small boats and planes, in waters off my home state of Hawai‘i that both restore our threatened marine ecosystem and draw those who want to experience our marine life up-close and understand how it must be preserved. Our bill will expand on these opportunities in Hawai‘i and elsewhere.”

The REEF Act will protect South Florida’s coastal ecosystem, provide unique opportunities for U.S. veterans, and boost regional and local economies.

The legislation is supported by American Sportfishing Association, BoatU.S., Center for Sportfishing Policy, Coastal Conservation Association, Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation, Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation, International Game Fish Association, National Marine Manufacturers Association, National Association of Charterboat Operators, Panama City Boatmen Association, Recreational Fishing Alliance, Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, and Wild Oceans.

You can read the full text of the House bill here, and the Senate version here.

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