Rep. Sykes’ Leadership Helps Pass Bipartisan Water Protection Bill in the House

March 24, 2026 Rep. Sykes’ Leadership Helps Pass Bipartisan Water Protection Bill in the House WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) voted in favor of the American Water Stewardship Act , bipartisan legislation to protect clean water, restore waterways, and safeguard public health, as it passed in the House. The package includes the Beaches Environmental Assessment and Coastal Health (BEACH) Act , which Rep. Sykes co-leads. The act reauthorizes an EPA grant program that helps states and local governments monitor water quality at coastal recreational waters and notify the public when conditions are unsafe. The legislation also expands the program to allow communities to identify sources of contamination. The bill also includes the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative Act of 2025 , for which Rep. Sykes is an original cosponsor. The initiative supports efforts to restore habitats, improve water quality, and protect the largest freshwater system in the world. “Clean water is a human right, and this bill helps protect Lake Erie and other waterways for families, communities, and businesses in Northeast Ohio,” said Rep. Sykes. “Investing in our water is an investment in our health, our economy, and our future.” The American Water Stewardship Act now moves to the Senate for consideration. Print Email Share Tweet