WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today made this statement following a Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works (EPW) hearing examining the Coastal Habitat Conservation Act.

“The EPW Committee held a legislative hearing on the Coastal Habitat Conservation Act of 2021. I am proud to be the lead Republican sponsor of this legislation which codifies the Coastal Program administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The Coastal Program is voluntary and leverages private sector resources to further enhance and protect coastal ecosystems.

“In South Carolina, the Department of Natural Resources has leveraged federal dollars to enhance coastal areas that provide important fish and wildlife habitat on both public and private land. These conservation efforts provide recreational opportunities along our beautiful coastline.

“By making this law, we will put in place a public-private partnership that has benefitted South Carolina’s coastal communities and protect the great outdoors for future generations to enjoy.”

#####