The New York-New Jersey Watershed Protection Act establishes a comprehensive, nonregulatory program to restore and protect the New York-New Jersey Watershed. This initiative aims to coordinate efforts among various governmental and conservation partners to enhance fish and wildlife habitats , improve water quality , and foster community resilience against climate change impacts. A key focus is engaging and supporting communities experiencing environmental injustice through outreach, education, and workforce development. The Act mandates the Secretary of the Interior to develop a Watershed-wide strategy, drawing on existing plans and prioritizing science-based, cost-effective projects with measurable results. This strategy will emphasize conservation outcomes and the needs of environmental justice communities, while also increasing scientific capacity and supporting land conservation and green infrastructure projects. Central to the program is the New York-New Jersey Watershed Restoration Grant Program, which provides competitive matching grants to eligible entities like State, Tribal, and local governments, and nonprofit organizations. These grants will fund activities aligned with the program's goals, with the Federal share generally up to 50%, but increasing to 90% or even 100% for small, rural, or disadvantaged communities. The bill authorizes an appropriation of $20,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2026 through 2031, with at least 75% of these funds dedicated to the grant program. This funding is intended to supplement existing activities and the program requires annual reports to Congress on its implementation before ceasing effect on October 1, 2031.