Federal Delaware River program extended nine years, Maryland added as fifth state
In committeeH.R. 1304Latest action
Sponsor: Brian K. Fitzpatrick · Representative · PA
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Official title: Delaware River Basin Restoration Program Reauthorization Act of 2025
119th Congress
Topics: Environment & energy
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
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HR 1304 extends Delaware River Basin conservation grants through 2032 and adds Maryland, with new priority for rural and low-income communities.
60-second read · 5 questions answered below
What does this do?
HR 1304 renews a federal grant program for conservation and restoration work in the Delaware River Basin, extending it from its 2023 expiration through 2032. The bill officially adds Maryland to the program, expanding coverage from four states to five. A new guideline allows officials to prioritize funding for small towns, rural areas, and communities with fewer resources.
Who does it affect?
Residents living near the Delaware River and its tributaries across Delaware, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Maryland are most directly affected, particularly those in smaller or lower-income communities. Local governments, conservation groups, and water utilities that apply for federal grants through the program are also affected.
Why does it matter?
Without renewal, the program would have ended in 2023, halting federal funding for water cleanup, land protection near rivers and streams, and habitat restoration for fish and wildlife in the region. The addition of Maryland and the new rural and low-income priority guideline changes which communities and projects may receive funding going forward.
What does it cost, and who pays?
- Grants fund water, land, and habitat projects
- No total dollar amount specified
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Where does it stand?
- IntroducedFeb 13, 2025
- House committeeYou are here · Feb 13, 2025
- House vote
- Senate
- The president's desk
Right now: a House committee is reviewing it. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Referred to the Committee on Natural Resources, and in addition to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.