SW Georgia News

Congressman Mike Collins of Georgia's 10th district has been appointed as Chairman of the Water Resources and Environment Subcommittee. This appointment was announced by Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Sam Graves from Missouri's 6th district.

The subcommittee oversees matters related to water resources, conservation, management, water infrastructure, hazardous waste cleanup, and the operations of entities such as the United States Army Corps of Engineers, NOAA, and the EPA.

Rep. Collins expressed his enthusiasm for his new role: “It is an honor to serve as Chairman of the crucial Water Resources and Environment Subcommittee. I look forward to increasing our global trade competitiveness and hitting the ground running to cut the bureaucratic red tape that is hurting our nation.” He emphasized efforts to enhance America's ports, particularly mentioning the Port of Savannah, and advocated for reforms in regulatory policies.

Sam Graves praised Collins' leadership qualities: “Mike Collins has rolled up his sleeves and become a leader on the Committee, and I’m excited to name him as the Chairman of the Water Resources and Environment Subcommittee.” Graves highlighted their shared goals for improving national water infrastructure while balancing economic growth with environmental protection.

Griff Lynch, CEO & President of Georgia Ports Authority, also extended congratulations: “The Georgia Ports Authority congratulates Congressman Collins on this important new role. Georgia’s seaports are critical economic drivers for the United States.”

A primary focus for Chairman Collins will be on advancing the biennial Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), which empowers the Army Corps of Engineers in various projects like flood control and navigation improvements. In WRDA 2024, Rep. Collins secured measures that protect local resources such as New Savannah Bluff Lock and Dam while supporting projects like deepening the Port of Savannah.

Collins' chairmanship also aims to address concerns regarding regulations affecting Georgia's agriculture sector by examining burdensome rules like those under EPA’s “Waters of the United States.”

Since joining Congress in 2023, Rep. Collins has been active on several committees including Transportation and Infrastructure, Natural Resource Committee, Science, Space, and Technology Committee.