Senate Passes Soo Locks Authorization

Today, the U.S. Senate passed the bipartisan water infrastructure legislation that passed the House on September 13. The legislation now goes to President Trump.

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, Congressman Moolenaar, Congressman Jack Bergman and Congressman Paul Mitchell highlighted how vital the Soo Locks are for Michigan and the nation during a conversation with President Donald Trump. 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 in the House last month. He made the following statement about today's vote in the Senate:

"Today's vote shows there is strong bipartisan support for the Soo Locks. After more than a decade of inaction in Washington, the Soo Locks are receiving the attention they deserve and progress is being made. I will continue to work on this vital priority for Michigan as it takes the next steps."

###