We celebrate our oceans by protecting them. ⛴ 🌊

Happy World Oceans Day!

Here in Washington's Second Congressional district, we have some of the most pristine oceans and aquatic ecosystems in the world. Our communities have grown around these waters. For generations, Washingtonians have relied on these waters for transportation, jobs, and recreation.

Take, for example, the Washington state ferry system. Since the ferry system was created 72 years ago, ferries have been an essential part of our infrastructure. You, your family, or your neighbor may plan your day around a ferry, and our entire community relies on ferries every day to connect us across the Puget Sound and its many inlets, straits, and bays.

Washington state relies on ferries because they are a necessity, not a luxury, and that is why I continue to fight for funding our vital infrastructure, like the funding I helped secure to modernize the ferry system to Lummi Island.

But on World Oceans Day, we cannot just remember what the oceans do for us, we have to act to protect them. From preventing ocean acidification to restoring marine habitats, I am committed to driving change and protecting our coastline and oceans.

In Congress, I work hard to bring funding to our community to help restore our aquatic ecosystems. Just this year, I worked with congressional leaders to bring more than $37 million in funding to combat climate change, restore wildlife habitat, and bring green jobs to our community.

Today is the day to celebrate our oceans, and it is a great day to join the fight to protect them.

Rick