North Miami-Dade News

WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, President Biden signed H.R. 4389, Rep. María Elvira Salazar’s (R-FL) Migratory Birds of the Americas Conservation Enhancements Act, into law. The legislation passed overwhelmingly in the House of Representatives and Senate, marking a significant milestone in the protection of migratory bird species.

“The passage of this bill represents a historic step forward in the protection of our South Florida ecosystem,” said Rep. Salazar. “The federal government has made a significant investment in protecting our migratory birds by directing critical funding towards research and conservation efforts. This is a major win for South Florida – birds and humans alike.”

The Neotropical Migratory Bird Conservation Act (NMBCA) provides competitive grants for habitat conservation, research and monitoring, and community outreach and education. The Migratory Birds of the Americas Conservation Enhancements Act of 2023 reauthorizes this program for the next 5 years, aiming to fund projects in the Western Hemisphere that positively impact migratory birds.

According to the National Audubon Society, the North American bird population has declined by 3 billion birds since 1970. The society also notes that more than 700 projects funded by the NMBCA have positively impacted over 5 million acres of migratory bird habitat in the U.S., Canada, and more than 40 nations throughout Latin America and the Caribbean since 2002.

Migratory birds play a crucial role in the nation's ecosystem and economy. More than 96 million people engaged in birdwatching in 2022, with migratory bird populations supporting a wildlife-associated recreation sector that spent $394 billion last year.

By signing the Migratory Birds of the Americas Conservation Enhancements Act into law, Congresswoman Salazar continues her advocacy for animal welfare and environmental conservation. This legislation marks her seventh bill to be enacted, adding to a list of impactful policies aimed at benefiting communities and ecosystems.

Through ongoing investments in conservation efforts, the protection of migratory birds and their habitats remains a priority, ensuring the sustainability of these vital species for future generations.