The Alabama Port Authority is on board with a bill by State Rep. Rhett Marques (R-Enterprise) that requires 70% of dredged material to be beneficially used.
An amendment to the bill, made on Wednesday, states that no funds from the State General Fund are required to be in compliance, and that projects will be required only if federal funds are available for beneficial use.
"The Alabama Port Authority is proud to support the House legislation as amended and appreciates the collaborative approach that lawmakers have taken to address both environmental stewardship and the Port's operational needs," stated Port of Mobile director and CEO Doug Otto. "We look forward to continuing our work with the State of Alabama, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and local partners to advance additional beneficial use projects that strengthen our coastline, protect Mobile Bay and provide economic benefit to communities across Alabama."
Marques and State Sen. Chris Elliott (R-Josephine) introduced companion bills to stop federal mud dumping in Mobile Bay. Marques said his bill, House Bill 181, was passed out of committee following the amendment, and it is now moving to the House floor for a vote.
"This important legislation will protect our oystermen and fishermen's livelihoods, conserve our God-given resources for the next generation, and require that sediment be responsibly disposed of in Mobile Bay," said Marques.
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