Washington, DC (Dec. 18) – Both houses of Congress approved a $450 billion dollar omnibus spending bill on Friday, completing the four remaining appropriations bills needed to fund the federal government through fiscal year 2001. The legislation earmarks approximately $28 million for coastal impact assistance in Louisiana.

A total of $150 million is included in the bill for coastal impact assistance in seven oil and gas producing states, including Louisiana. Up to $28 million will be set aside for Louisiana to offset the impacts of offshore oil and gas development. In addition, the state will receive $3 million as a grant to the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources for brown marsh research/mitigation and nutria control.

"This money will help restore and preserve our coastal areas, which are vital to protecting our state's natural treasures," said Sen. Mary L. Landrieu (D-La.). "But I have high hopes that Congress will pass even more comprehensive conservation legislation next year through the Conservation and Reinvestment Act. Although we came just short of passing this landmark bill this year, the new makeup of the Senate strengthens the already bipartisan support for CARA. Next year, we will continue the fight towards protecting our coastlines and open spaces, expanding our parks, and investing in wildlife conservation."

CARA would create steady and reliable environmental funding by redirecting a portion of offshore oil and gas revenues to states to fully fund the Land and Water Conservation Fund's federal and state side initiatives, coastal conservation and impact assistance, wildlife conservation, historic preservation, urban and forestry parks projects, and the Payments-in-Lieu-of-Taxes (PILT) program. Currently, the federal government keeps almost 100 percent of these revenues, with little returned to states and local governments to protect and conserve our natural treasures.

"I am pleased our final budget agreement included $28 million to protect Louisiana's coastal areas," said Sen. John Breaux (D-La.). "Our coastlines are some of the most cherished wildlife areas in the nation. These new funds complement the $40 million Louisiana receives each year for coastal restoration under the Breaux Act."

The final budget bill provides a total of $450 million dollars for ocean and coastal programs. It also includes $50 million for states and territories for wildlife conservation and restoration.

"This is an important first step towards protecting Louisiana's coastlines," said Rep. Billy Tauzin (R-La.). "However, I look forward to working with Sen. Landrieu and the rest of the Louisiana delegation next year in pushing for the passage of broad conservation initiatives included in the CARA bill."

"A comprehensive conservation package is vital not only to Louisiana's valuable coastline, but also to the sustainability of our parks and recreation facilities, wildlife preservation, and unique ecosystem," said Rep. Chris John (D-La.). "I am pleased that Congress is beginning to address these coastal needs, and I look forward to continued progress in the 107th Congress."