Environment

Congressman Connolly has led efforts to extend Metrorail, complete the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail, and open Featherstone National Wildlife Refuge to the public.  He has worked with colleagues from the region to more than double Chesapeake Bay oyster restoration funding while writing comprehensive legislation to restore the Bay.  These efforts complement his efforts as a local government official, where he led the effort to build the 41-mile-long Cross County Trail and helped protect 10% of Fairfax County as county-owned parkland.  He helped design and implement the county's first comprehensive environmental plan which subsequently won a national award.

In the 111^thCongress, Congressman Connolly helped pass the largest investment in clean energy in American history and supported legislation to reduce global warming pollution and reform offshore oil drilling.  He led efforts to oppose drilling off the coast of Virginia or in the Chesapeake Bay and introduced amendments to require oil companies to pay the full cost of oil spill cleanups.  During the 112^thCongress, Congressman Connolly has continued his efforts to establish powerful voluntary tax incentives to complete America’s 11 National Scenic Trails and is helping craft Chesapeake Bay restoration legislation.  He reintroduced legislation to protect coastal communities and the Chesapeake Bay from oil spills.  Finally, he is fighting against efforts to repeal the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, Antiquities Act, and other important environmental legislation.  As a Vice-Chairman of the House Sustainable Energy and Environment Caucus, he plays a leadership role in efforts to protect America’s environment and public health.