But with experts warning that the Great Lakes, the world’s largest repository of fresh water, could be facing an ecological tipping point from which they may never be able to recover, President Bush cannot ignore a bill sent to his desk late last week. The measure would help to restore fish and wildlife habitats while keeping tabs on the Great Lakes region’s ecosystems with up to $16 million in grant programs. Senate and House appropriators would decide actual spending levels later this year, the Associated Press reported.
...The lack of money in the Bush budget was baffling. But the president still can make a Great Lakes great save by signing the bill now on his desk — and then by continuing to support such efforts.
The bill at issue here is a good thing. It will be a good thing if the Prez signs it. But as the editorial points out, the bill authorizes $80 million -- it appropriates zero dollars. The appropriating part (actual spending) will happen at another time, if at all.
So after 3 years of Bush rhetoric about "the national treasure" that is the Great Lakes we will still have zero new dollars appropriated for them as a result of his efforts. Let's hold the nation's CEO to a slightly higher standrard.
Posted by Dave at October 3, 2006 03:21 PM