Bill Would Establish $1B Fund For Jersey Shore Beach Protection

WASHINGTON, DC — A proposed bill would establish a $1 billion fund specifically for beach protection projects across the country, Rep. Jeff Van Drew announced.

The Coastal Trust Fund Act, a bipartisan bill introduced by Van Drew (R-NJ) and Rep. Laura Gillen (D-NY), would set up a permanent and reliable funding stream for coastal storm risk management projects like beach nourishment.

"This is a big deal, not just for New Jersey, but for the whole country. The American coastal economy contributes to 46 percent of national GDP, but too often the government does not deliver coastal protection until after a disaster strikes," Van Drew said. "This legislation changes the status quo by investing $1 billion a year into the Army Corps of Engineers' coastal storm management projects. By funding the Coastal Trust Fund with existing offshore energy lease revenues, we earned a budget-neutral score from the Congressional Budget Office, meaning no new taxes or fees on anybody."

He said that the bill was developed through months of collaboration with coastal experts.

"We must secure dedicated funding for projects that protect our waterfront communities and preserve our shoreline," Gillen said.

A number of coastal organizations also shared their support for the bill.

"The American Coastal Coalition strongly supports the Coastal Trust Fund Act, which will establish a dedicated revenue stream to support federal beach nourishment projects. Delays and shortages in federal funding for beaches have severe economic impacts for non-federal sponsors. This legislation fixes that," said Dan Ginolfi, Executive Director, American Coastal Coalition.

"The bill not only safeguards our environment, but also fuels economic growth by indirectly bolstering tourism, jobs, and local businesses," said Nicole Elko, Executive Director, American Shore and Beach Preservation Association.