Kagen Steps Up Commitment To Protect Great Lakes
(WASHINGTON, D.C.) — Saying that the measure will help protect the future of one of the greatest freshwater systems on earth, Congressman Steve Kagen, M.D. today voted for passage of the Great Lakes Compact, a bipartisan effort he originally co-sponsored.
Kagen said the compact provides a framework for ensuring sustainable water use in the Great Lakes basin and makes it possible for governors to veto any plan to divert water to other regions unless all of the governors agree.
“A vibrant Great Lakes basin is vital to the health of our people and our economy,” Kagen said. “Today’s vote is the culmination of a bipartisan effort that will ensure the future of the greatest freshwater system in the world.”
Kagen said he is proud of the work of Gov. Jim Doyle, state Sen. Rob Cowles, state Sen. Dave Hanson, and other Wisconsin leaders who found common ground to protect the lakes, which contain more than 90 percent of the country’s surface fresh water and supply drinking water to some 30 million people.
“The passage of this compact is great news for those in northeast Wisconsin who are passionate advocates for the Great Lakes, including sportsmen, Native Americans, those in private industry and the agricultural community,” Congressman Kagen said.
The measure now goes to the White House for the President’s signature.
