Members of Connecticut’s and New York’s congressional delegations are joining forces in an effort to protect Long Island Sound environmental funding from $65 million a year in proposed Trump Administration budget cuts.

“This legislation is essential to future restoration efforts, especially in light of the Trump Administration’s plan to eliminate EPA funding for the Sound,” U.S. Rep. Rosa DeLauro, D-3, said in a statement.

The bill to preserve current Long Island Sound funding is being sponsored by Democrats from both states and at least one Republican: U.S. Rep. Lee Zeldin, who represents a congressional district covering a large section of Long Island.

President Trump’s proposed budget calls for dramatic cuts in funding and staff for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, as well as major reductions in environmental programs for the Sound and other areas like the Great Lakes.

“This important measure helps protect and preserve one of our nation’s most precious and important natural resources – Long Island Sound – which provides immense environmental and economic benefits to Connecticut and the country,” U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., said.

U.S. Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn., said the proposed legislation “could be a game-changer for Long Island Sound.”

“We must do everything we can to protect this natural treasure which is a precious feature of our life, culture and economy here in the First Congressional District of New York,” Zeldin said.

The proposed bill would protect $40 million a year in funding for water quality programs to improve and protect the Sound, and $25 million a year in shore restoration program funding.