The Great Lakes Restoration Initiative began in 2010 as a way to mitigate damage to the Great Lakes and its watersheds. The initiative was authored by Senator Debbie Stabenow to help stop the spread of Asian carp and other invasive species, but it was also designed to restore fisheries and wildlife habitats, clean up beaches, and prevent future contamination. Now, the program is set to expire in 2020. Stabenow, along with 12 U.S. Senators and 41 U.S. Representatives, including 12 members from Michigan, have introduced a new bill. The 2019 act reauthorizes the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative for another five years and increases its funding level from $300 million to $475 million by fiscal-year 2026. Senator Stabenow said renewing and expanding funding should be a no-brainer.
