Reintroduced bipartisan bill to mitigate flooding through use of native plants
U.S. Representatives Mikie Sherrill (NJ) and David Joyce (OH) reintroduced the Building Native Habitats and Federal Facilities Act on February 21, 2025.
The bill promotes the planting of native species in landscaping projects at federal buildings. A press release states that native plants are critical environmental resources because they protect animal habitats and food chains, help mitigate flooding by retaining and filtering stormwater and are less costly to maintain.
“When we take steps to protect our environment, we’re not just curbing climate change, we’re lowering costs and improving the quality of life here in New Jersey,” said Rep. Sherrill in a press release. “That’s why I am introducing legislation to encourage the use of native plants at federal facilities in New Jersey and across the country. Local, native plants help preserve critical habitats and food supplies for animals, contain and filter stormwater to protect communities from flooding, and require less maintenance — reducing costs for towns and municipalities. I look forward to continuing to work with environmental advocates across New Jersey as we advance this legislation to protect the Garden State.”
The Building Native Habitats at Federal Facilities Act mandates that federal agencies prioritize native plants when engaging in landscaping work and update their agency facility design standards. Additionally, the legislation encourages the creation of a new public report that will share best practices on how to promote native habitats across federal facilities.
“Ohio is home to a multitude of native plants that support our delicate ecosystem and water conservation efforts,” said Rep. Joyce in a press release. “This bipartisan legislation will ensure we protect native plants and restore natural habitats to aid endangered wildlife and support our local economies. I remain committed to supporting natural habitat conservation and restoration efforts that will benefit communities in Northeast Ohio and across the country.”
According to a press release, the legislation has earned the endorsement of national and statewide environmental organizations, including the National Audubon Society, Environment America, The Nature Conservancy, Sierra Club, Native Plant Society of New Jersey, Nature Conservancy of New Jersey, and the New Jersey Conservation Foundation.
