Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02) helped advance the Promoting United Government Efforts To Save Our Sound (PUGET SOS) Act to boost federal engagement and investment in critical Puget Sound recovery efforts. Larsen spoke in support of the bill during a House Transportation and Infrastructure Full Committee markup.

“The waters of Puget Sound, and the wildlife that call it home, are cornerstones of Washington state’s cultural identity, maritime economy and environment,” said Larsen. “The bipartisan PUGET SOS Act will provide the critical federal investment and stewardship needed to help save the Sound. I will continue to champion efforts to restore critical habitats and secure federal funding to preserve Washington state’s public lands and waters.”

The PUGET SOS Act strengthens the federal government’s partnership with state and local groups by codifying a task force to enhance public participation, transparency and oversight. The bill also creates a Puget Sound Recovery National Program Office at the Environmental Protection Agency, elevating Puget Sound recovery efforts at the agency to the same level as the successful Great Lakes and Chesapeake Bay restoration efforts. Further, the bill authorizes reliable federal funding for Puget Sound recovery actions through fiscal year 2023.

Larsen also worked to advance a bill protecting U.S. labor interest by preventing foreign air carriers from exploiting a “flag of convenience” to avoid the regulations of their home countries, or otherwise undermine labor standards.

“Looking at the future of aviation and aerospace means improving the nation’s competitiveness in the global market. The bipartisan Fair and Open Skies Act says to the world the U.S. will not reward countries that break their commitments to protecting workers,” said Larsen. “I am proud to support the best aerospace and aviation workers in the world and ensure the U.S. remains competitive in the international market.”

Both bills now head to the House floor for a vote.

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