U.S. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) on Feb. 13 proposed a bipartisan bill that would reauthorize conservation programs for the Delaware River Basin, one of America’s most important watersheds, spanning Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, New York, and Maryland.
“The Delaware River is one of our nation’s most invaluable natural resources — providing clean drinking water to millions, fueling a thriving outdoor economy, and supporting critical ecosystems,” said Rep. Fitzpatrick, co-chair of the Congressional Delaware River Watershed Caucus. “This bipartisan reauthorization is about ensuring our progress doesn’t stop here.”
The congressman sponsored the Delaware River Basin Restoration Program Reauthorization Act of 2025, H.R. 1304, alongside 14 original cosponsors, including lead original cosponsor U.S. Rep. Dwight Evans (D-PA).
If enacted, H.R. 1304 would extend program authorization through 2032 to ensure long-term conservation and restoration efforts; expand the official definition of the basin to include Maryland, officially recognizing its ecological and economic contributions to the watershed; and prioritize projects that serve small, rural, and disadvantaged communities, according to a bill summary provided by Rep. Fitzpatrick’s staff.
“By investing in local conservation projects, improving water quality, restoring habitats, and expanding outdoor access, we are delivering real, tangible results for our communities,” said the lawmaker. “This is not just about protecting the river — it’s about protecting livelihoods, public health, and the economic future of our region.”
The Delaware River Basin supplies drinking water to over 15 million Americans, supports a $22 billion economy, and sustains critical ecosystems across five states. Since being established in 2016, the restoration program has delivered $72.1 million in federal grants, leveraged $100 million in additional investments, and funded nearly 250 high-impact conservation projects that protect water quality, restore habitats, and expand public access, the bill summary says.
“Every federal dollar invested leverages millions more, creating good-paying jobs and securing a more resilient Delaware River Basin for generations to come,” said Rep. Fitzpatrick.
The bill has been endorsed by the Coalition for the Delaware River Watershed.
“I’m pleased that we have bipartisan support for the urgently needed reauthorization of the Delaware River Basin Restoration Program,” said Rep. Evans. “This program matters because it provides valuable support, through technical and grant assistance, to restoration and protection activities throughout the Delaware River Basin.”