BREAKING: A shocking new report reveals that 61% of U.S. beaches are contaminated with dangerous levels of fecal bacteria, posing significant health risks to millions of Americans. Environment America released these alarming findings on July 12, 2023, prompting urgent calls for congressional action to address this public health crisis.
The report highlights that contamination is widespread across the nation, affecting beaches on the East Coast, Great Lakes, Gulf Coast, and West Coast. Environment America Executive Director Lisa Frank stated, “Too often our favorite beaches aren’t safe for swimming. This beach pollution threatens our health. Each year, 57 million Americans get sick after swimming in our oceans, lakes, rivers, and ponds.”
The primary sources of this alarming pollution are raw sewage and stormwater runoff, which are spilling into recreational waterways. Frank emphasized the need for substantial investment in water infrastructure, urging Congress to act quickly. “We’re going to have to dig deeper and dramatically expand funding for water infrastructure,” she said.
In response to the findings, lawmakers from both parties are advocating for funding through the Beach Act. This crucial legislation aims to support local governments in testing, monitoring, and notifying the public about contamination in recreational waters. Rhode Island Senator Jack Reed is a prominent supporter of this initiative, stating, “This is an investment in our economy and our communities.”
The financial burden of fixing this contamination crisis is estimated at a staggering $630 billion over the next two decades. However, securing this funding in Congress remains a significant challenge. Ohio Congressman Dave Joyce is actively working to build bipartisan support, highlighting the interconnectedness of water issues across the country. “The algal bloom issue that we had in Toledo is the same problem in Florida, Everglades. We have the same issues throughout the country,” he noted.
Senator Reed further argued that the economic and social benefits of clean beaches far outweigh the costs. “In every state, there are beaches either lakeside or oceanside that are economic and community drivers. If we do not monitor and measure bacteria and pollution, we’re going to lose those as centers of community life and centers of economic life,” he said.
As the summer season progresses, beachgoers are urged to stay informed about water quality and potential health risks. The call for immediate action is clear: Congress must prioritize funding to ensure safe recreational waterways for all Americans.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as lawmakers push for essential changes to protect public health and preserve our treasured beaches.
