As a lifelong resident of Texas, growing up fishing, skiing, and camping at the lakes and rivers in West Texas, I've seen firsthand the impact that abandoned and derelict vessels have on our waterways. These forgotten relics not only pose navigational hazards but also contribute to environmental degradation. We only have one chance to clean up our waterways and preserve the environment for future generations.

According to a report by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), there are an estimated 1,300 derelict vessels littering U.S. waters. Many of these are in Texas, where they pose significant threats to marine life, water quality, and public safety.

The cost of removing these vessels is high - often exceeding their value - which is why many owners choose abandonment over responsible disposal. This leaves taxpayers with the burden of cleanup costs.

We believe that it's time for the State to step in and fund this necessary cleanup effort. By doing so, we can protect our precious marine ecosystems from further harm while also ensuring safe navigation for all who use our waterways.

Please join us in urging our state representatives to allocate funding towards cleaning up abandoned and derelict vessels in Texas waters. Sign this petition today!