House Passes Soo Locks Authorization

Today, the House of Representatives passed the bipartisan agreement that was introduced on Monday providing funding for America's water infrastructure. The legislation now goes to the Senate.

For Michigan, the legislation includes the announced authorization of a new, second lock at the Soo Locks that can handle Great Lakes freighters. The legislation authorizes funding the Army Corps of Engineers estimate of $922 million for the construction of a new lock.

Congressman John Moolenaar is a longtime supporter of building a new, second Lock. In April, he highlighted how vital it is for Michigan and the nation during a conversation with President Donald Trump, and Congressman Jack Bergman and Congressman Paul Mitchell. Shortly after the conversation, President Trump pledged his support for a new lock, and since then the Army Corps has taken a greater interest in the lock project.

Congressman Moolenaar voted for the legislation and made the following statement:

"Today's legislation makes it crystal clear: President Trump, Republicans, and Democrats support a new lock in the Soo. After 50 years of harsh winters and extraordinary maintenance, we need to build a second lock to be ready in case the one lock we have fails. We cannot afford a disruption of the Great Lakes shipping that is crucial to American manufacturing jobs and the products enjoyed by millions of Americans. I will be working with my colleagues on the Appropriations Committee to fund this vital construction for Michigan and the country."

###