Md. Congressman Re-Introduces Environmental Ed Bill

WASHINGTON (AP) -- Maryland Rep. John Sarbanes says he has reintroduced the No Child Left Inside Act to strengthen
environmental education in schools nationwide.

Sarbanes said Thursday that the act is supported by The No Child Left Inside Coalition which represents more than 50 million Americans. The Maryland Democrat says the act would authorize new funding for states, supporting outdoor activities, professional development for teachers and the creation of state environmental literacy plans.

The National Wildlife Federation says it applauds the introduction of the bill by Sarbanes and Sens. Jack Reed, D-RI, and
Mark Kirk, R-IL. The federation says it will promote interest in science, technology, engineering and math, fields that are crucial to keeping the American workforce competitive.

Maryland's Board of Education passed an environmental literacy graduation requirement last month.

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