RISEE Act Would Direct Critical Funding to Protect Coastal Communities from Climate Threats

(Washington, D.C.- July 21, 2022) As communities across coasts face growing threats from climate change, the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee today advanced legislation that would provide funding for vital solutions to increase climate resilience. The Reinvesting in Shoreline Economies and Ecosystems (RISEE) Act would direct funding to the National Oceans and Coastal Security Fund from revenue generated by offshore wind production and expand restoration funding for the Mississippi River Delta and the Gulf Coast by eliminating the revenue sharing cap under the 2006 Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act. This legislation advances after the Biden Administration announced plans to expand wind development in the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic waters offshore the southeastern United States.  

“Our coastal communities are facing increased pressure from climate change through rising seas and stronger hurricanes. We must act now with proactive investments in bold solutions that can address these risks and bolster community resilience before the worst effects of climate change take hold. The RISEE Act provides an important opportunity to dedicate funding to solutions that will harness nature as a vital buffer for communities from storms and sea level rise, while also improving quality of life, creating jobs and enhancing water quality. Senators Whitehouse and Cassidy represent coastal states at extreme risk from climate change, and their leadership in advancing this legislation will help all coastal states be better prepared.”    

Elizabeth Gore, Senior Vice President, Political Affairs, Environmental Defense Fund