House and Senate Advance Legislation to Improve Ports and Navigation

What happened:  The House and Senate each advanced Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) legislation, July 22 and Aug. 1, respectively.  The measures were approved by wide margins in both chambers. The biennial bills will enhance dams, ports, harbors and coastal areas.  The House bill authorizes funds for 12 new waterway and navigation construction projects and the Senate version authorizes eight.   

Why it matters:  Investing in waterway improvements helps ensure efficient freight movement across all modes, while protecting people and property along inland and international coastlines

What’s next:  The House and Senate will work to resolve their differences in order to send a final bill to the president for signature.