Washington, D.C. – The following statement was issued by Reggie Paros (@ReggieParos), director of Government Relations at Ocean Conservancy:

“We are deeply disappointed and troubled by Senator Joe Manchin’s comments regarding his position on the Build Back Better Act. We urge the Senate to press forward in passing the legislation while preserving its crucial climate and ocean investments.

“Our country – and the world – is at a critical turning point. Climate change is the biggest threat facing the health and productivity of our ocean and coastal communities. With funding for coastal restoration and pollution reduction at ports, as well as protections against new offshore oil and gas development and a manufacturing tax credit for offshore wind, this legislation is poised to make a big impact when signed into law.”

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Ocean Conservancy experts are available for comment upon request.

Ocean Conservancy is working to protect the ocean from today’s greatest global challenges. Together with our partners, we create science-based solutions for a healthy ocean and the wildlife and communities that depend on it. For more information, visit http://www.oceanconservancy.org, or follow us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.