Washington, DC – On April 10, 2025, U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen and U.S. Senators Mark Warner (D-Va.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.) and Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.) reintroduced the Chesapeake National Recreation Area (CNRA) Act in the 119th Congress.

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On December 18, 2024, the U.S. Senate unanimously passed the Chesapeake National Recreation Area Act (S. 2620). However, the U.S. House of Representatives did not pass the bill before leaving for the holidays as the 118^th Congress came to an end.

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Chesapeake Conservancy Interim President and CEO EJ Amyot issued this statement applauding the reintroduction and progress to establish the CNRA and recreational access to the Chesapeake Bay and its tidal waters in Maryland and Virginia.

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“For more than 30 years, the idea of a national park unit dedicated to the Chesapeake Bay has inspired advocates and communities alike. That dream came closer than ever in the 118th Congress, passing the Senate before time ran out in the House.

"We are grateful to Senator Van Hollen for continuing the momentum by reintroducing the Chesapeake National Recreation Area Act, and we look forward to working with him, Senators Alsobrooks, Kaine and Warner and the bipartisan Chesapeake Bay congressional delegation.

“This landmark legislation will honor the Bay’s rich history, expand public access and ensure that all who live, work and visit here can continue to cherish and protect this national treasure for generations to come."

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