Peoria Standard

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) has joined forces with U.S. Representatives Mary Miller (IL-15), Mike Bost (IL-12), and Eric Sorenson (IL-17) to introduce the Upper Mississippi River Levee Safety Act in the House. This significant legislation aims to provide local levee districts along the Upper Mississippi River with greater flexibility to maintain their systems and better prepare for future floods by addressing federal regulatory challenges that hinder levee maintenance and improvements.

Highlighting the importance of inland waterways to the economic viability of communities in central and northwestern Illinois, Congressman LaHood expressed his pride in introducing this crucial legislation. He emphasized that these waterways play a vital role in allowing small businesses, farmers, and manufacturers to export commodities globally.

Congressman LaHood stated, "I am proud to join members of the Illinois Delegation to introduce this important legislation to improve levee operations along the Upper Mississippi River and provide local levee districts greater flexibility to maintain their systems."

Recognizing the significance of the bill, Representative Miller emphasized the need to equip levee operators with the necessary tools and flexibility to conduct essential maintenance along the Mississippi River. She highlighted the role of Mississippi levees in protecting countless homes and thousands of acres of farmland. Representative Miller also expressed her eagerness to collaborate with Chairman Sam Graves and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee on this important issue.

Representative Bost, acknowledging the devastating impact of floods on low-lying communities, stressed the critical importance of investing in a strengthened levee system. He expressed his support for the legislation and his commitment to ensuring the safety of Southern Illinoisans.

As the only meteorologist serving in Congress, Representative Sorenson understands firsthand the devastating consequences of extreme weather events. He proudly supports the bill, emphasizing its role in protecting the region from flooding along the Mississippi River, supporting the agriculture industry, and ensuring the safety of residents.

The Upper Mississippi River Levee Safety Act has garnered support from various organizations, including the Upper Mississippi, Illinois & Missouri Rivers Association, Corn Belt Ports, and the Illinois Farm Bureau.

Mike Klingner, Chairman of the Upper Mississippi, Illinois & Missouri Rivers Association (UMIMRA), emphasized that the legislation aligns with the original intent of Congress and the Corps. He assured that the act would not alter the impact on other levee districts along the Upper Mississippi River and would not divert federal funds from other districts. Klingner further highlighted the benefits of the act for environmental conservation areas protected by levees.

To learn more about the Upper Mississippi River Levee Safety Act, visit the official website of Congressman Darin LaHood.

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