Reps. Ritter, Robb Blasdel Provide Testimony on Resolution to Urge Congressional Support of the Ohio River Restoration Program Act

COLUMBUS – State Representatives Kevin Ritter (R-Marietta) and Monica Robb Blasdel (R-New Waterford) this week provided sponsor testimony before the House Natural Resources Committee on House Concurrent Resolution 40, legislation urging Congress to enact the Ohio River Restoration Program Act.

The Ohio River Restoration Program Act would establish a comprehensive federal restoration initiative for the Ohio River Basin, a vital system that supports manufacturing, agriculture, shipping, energy production, tourism, and municipal infrastructure across Ohio and the Midwest. The legislation would support investments to improve the quality of drinking water, protect public health, restore ecosystems, and strengthen local economies.

“The Ohio River Basin is not merely an environmental asset,” said Ritter during sponsor testimony. “It is a productive economic engine that supports jobs, commerce, transportation, and regional competitiveness.”

“This resolution sends a clear message that Ohio recognizes the importance of preserving and restoring the Ohio River, and that we support bipartisan efforts at the federal level to ensure this critical resource remains healthy and productive for decades to come,” said Robb Blasdel.

In 2023, American Rivers designated the Ohio River as America’s second most endangered river due to water quality degradation, harmful algal blooms, toxic contamination, aging infrastructure, and flooding events.

H.C.R. 40 awaits further consideration from the House Natural Resources Committee.