Resolution: Reauthorization of the National Invasive Species Act
Adopted on October 15, 2002

Whereas, the invasion of nonindigenous aquatic nuisance species (ANS) in the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence system and inland waters continues to threaten the ecological integrity, biological diversity and economic health of the region; and

Whereas, the Great Lakes Commission has recognized the importance of ANS prevention and control efforts through its leadership and support of the Great Lakes Panel on Aquatic Nuisance Species; and

Whereas, the National Invasive Species Act of 1996 (NISA) is being considered for reauthorization as the National Aquatic Invasive Species Act of 2002 (NAISA), and the new legislation will play a critically important role in the region's prevention and control efforts; and

Whereas, the Great Lakes Panel on Aquatic Nuisance Species has developed a series of consensus-based recommendations for consideration by the Congress during the NISA reauthorization process.

Therefore, be it resolved, that the Great Lakes Commission encourages the Congress to fully consider the Great Lakes Panel's recommendations during the NISA reauthorization process.

Be it further resolved, that the Great Lakes Commission urges the Congress to reauthorize NISA through the passage of NAISA in an expeditious manner; and

Be it finally resolved, that the Great Lakes Commission recognizes that the success of ANS prevention and control efforts requires a strong state-federal partnership as well as interstate and binational cooperation. Programs and appropriations in a reauthorized NISA should support this.

Unanimously adopted by the Great Lakes Commission at its Annual Meeting, October 15, 2002 in Cleveland, Ohio.