WASHINGTON, D.C. —  With the U.S. Senate’s reintroduction of the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative Act of 2025 (GLRI), the effort to safeguard one of America’s most vital natural resources moves forward.

"The Great Lakes are the lifeblood of our region, sustaining our health, economy, and environment," said Rebecca Meuninck, Great Lakes regional executive director for the National Wildlife Federation. "We commend Todd Young (R-IN) and Gary Peters (D-MI) for their leadership in championing this essential legislation. As Senator Peters prepares to retire, this bill stands as part of his enduring legacy—ensuring that restoration efforts continue for generations to come."

The GLRI represents the most significant federal investment in the health of the Great Lakes, addressing critical challenges such as pollution, invasive species, and habitat restoration. The Great Lakes provide drinking water to more than 40 million people, support a $6 trillion regional economy, and hold 20 percent of the world’s surface freshwater, making their protection a national priority.