Bill 118 s 5136, also known as the Plum Island Preservation Study Act, is a piece of legislation introduced in the US Congress. The purpose of this bill is to authorize a study to determine the feasibility and suitability of ...
preserving Plum Island, located off the coast of Long Island, New York.
Plum Island is currently home to the Plum Island Animal Disease Center, a research facility operated by the Department of Homeland Security. The facility conducts research on animal diseases and is considered a critical asset for protecting the nation's food supply.
However, there have been concerns about the potential sale of Plum Island for commercial development once the research facility is relocated to a new facility in Manhattan, Kansas. This bill aims to assess the environmental, historical, and cultural significance of Plum Island and explore options for its preservation.
The study authorized by this bill would be conducted by the Secretary of the Interior in consultation with the Secretary of Homeland Security and other relevant stakeholders. The study would evaluate the potential for preserving Plum Island as a wildlife refuge, historic site, or other protected area.
Overall, the Plum Island Preservation Study Act seeks to ensure that the future of Plum Island is carefully considered and that any decisions regarding its preservation are made with the best interests of the environment and the public in mind.