Suffolk Reporter

Reps. Nick LaLota (R-NY) and Joe Courtney (D-CT), co-chairs of the Long Island Sound Caucus, announced that their bipartisan Plum Island National Monument Act has passed the House Natural Resources Committee. This legislation aims to preserve Plum Island's environmental, historical, and cultural significance.

LaLota expressed pride in the advancement of the act through committee, emphasizing its importance for environmental stewardship and Suffolk County’s heritage. "I’ll keep working with my colleagues to ensure its swift passage on the House floor," he stated.

Courtney also highlighted the bill's progress as a crucial step toward conserving Plum Island. He commended LaLota for his collaboration and looked forward to further efforts with the caucus.

Rep. Bruce Westerman (R-AR), Chair of the Natural Resources Committee, praised LaLota's bipartisan work on this initiative.

The bill requires a comprehensive study by the Secretary of the Interior to evaluate Plum Island's potential designation as part of the National Park System or other protective measures. The study will involve consultations with stakeholders and provide cost estimates for federal actions related to protection efforts.

In March 2023, LaLota introduced this legislation as his first legislative effort. It proposes establishing Plum Island as a national monument focused on ecological conservation and cultural heritage preservation.

Plum Island is located in Southold Township, New York. Historically, it housed the Plum Island Animal Disease Center (PIADC), which was managed by various government departments until its closure was ordered in 2005 due to community concerns.

Originally slated for sale to private bidders, former Congressman Lee Zeldin successfully repealed this requirement. LaLota’s current legislation seeks to ensure long-term preservation of Plum Island’s natural habitat.