Bipartisan Bill Seeks $350M for Ohio River Restoration

Legislation modeled after Great Lakes initiative would address habitat, pollution and flooding issues across 15 states.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 4:15pm

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A bipartisan group of lawmakers has introduced legislation that would provide $350 million in federal investments to restore the Ohio River Basin, which currently lacks any dedicated federal funding despite being a critical waterway for commerce and drinking water. The Ohio River Restoration Program Act would create a federal office within the EPA to coordinate a restoration plan that includes habitat restoration, pollution prevention, workforce development, and investments in communities at risk of flooding and pollution.

Why it matters

The Ohio River serves as a source of drinking water for more than 25 million Americans and supports the nation's economy by carrying more than a third of the United States' waterborne commerce. The river's ecosystem generates more than 500,000 jobs and $21 billion in wages, making it a vital economic and environmental resource that has been overlooked for too long.

The details

The bipartisan legislation is led by Democratic U.S. Rep. Morgan McGarvey of Kentucky and cosponsored by U.S. Reps Emilia Sykes and Mike Rulli of Ohio. The bill aims to replicate the success of the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, which has returned more than $3 for every federal dollar invested.

  • The legislation was introduced in January 2026.

The players

Emilia Sykes

A Democratic U.S. Representative from Ohio whose district includes both the Lake Erie and Ohio River watersheds.

Mike Rulli

A Republican U.S. Representative from Ohio who described the Ohio River as the 'backbone' of his congressional district and 'an economic lifeline for our nation.'

Morgan McGarvey

A Democratic U.S. Representative from Kentucky who is leading the bipartisan legislation.

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What they’re saying

“We know how vital clean water is for our communities, our economy, and our health. This legislation ensures the Ohio River remains a thriving resource for generations to come.”

— Emilia Sykes, U.S. Representative

“The Ohio River is the backbone of my congressional district and an economic lifeline for our nation, playing a crucial role in settling America and building us into an economic powerhouse. This restoration program is a smart investment that will restore abundant fish and wildlife while keeping the river clean and healthy for future generations.”

— Mike Rulli, U.S. Representative

“The Ohio River has been overlooked for far too long, and it's time for it to get the attention and investment it deserves.”

— Morgan McGarvey, U.S. Representative

What’s next

The legislation will now move through the legislative process, with the goal of securing bipartisan support and funding to begin restoration efforts along the Ohio River Basin.

The takeaway

This bipartisan effort to invest $350 million in restoring the Ohio River Basin highlights the growing recognition of the river's critical importance as a source of drinking water, economic driver, and environmental resource that has been neglected for too long. If successful, the program could serve as a model for revitalizing other major waterways across the country.