AEM Applauds Senate Approval of Critical Waterways Bill
July 28, 2006 • The Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) recently applauded the recent affirmative vote by the U.S. Senate on the long-delayed Water Resources Development Act (WRDA).
WRDA authorizes planning and construction projects of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, including those that provide flood control and ensure continued navigation on our nation's waterways. Of particular importance to American agriculture is a WRDA provision to revitalize aging locks and dams on the upper
“Our association is pleased that the members of the Senate were able to come together and pass this legislation,” said AEM President Dennis Slater. “Waterways are an important segment of our nation's transportation network, and the Senate action helps ensure this vital corridor remains efficient and serviceable.”
The last WRDA legislation was signed into law in 2000. The U.S. House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed a new WRDA bill in July 2005. The two bills now move to a House-Senate conference committee for differences to be resolved.
AEM earlier this year had sent a letter to Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist asking that floor time be scheduled for the legislation. The association is also a member of the National Waterways Alliance, a coalition of agriculture, utilities, businesses and other industry associations engaged in water transportation infrastructure issues.
