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HD 691

An Act to overcome coastal and environmental acidification and nutrient pollution

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Thomas Moakley

HD 691: An Act to Overcome Coastal and Environmental Acidification and Nutrient Pollution OverviewBill Number: HD 691 Title: An Act to Overcome Coastal and Environmental Acidifica

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Bill Summary · HD 691

HD 691: An Act to Overcome Coastal and Environmental Acidification and Nutrient Pollution

Overview

Bill Number: HD 691
Title: An Act to Overcome Coastal and Environmental Acidification and Nutrient Pollution
Status: Proposed bill
Introduced: November 29, 2025

Purpose and Intent

This proposed legislation aims to address the growing problems of coastal and environmental acidification, as well as nutrient pollution, which have had significant negative impacts on marine ecosystems, fisheries, and coastal communities. The bill seeks to implement a comprehensive strategy to monitor, mitigate, and reverse these environmental challenges.

Key Provisions

  • Establishes a Coastal Acidification and Nutrient Pollution Task Force to coordinate research, monitoring, and response efforts across state agencies
  • Requires the development of a statewide Coastal Acidification and Nutrient Pollution Action Plan with specific targets and timelines for improvement
  • Provides funding for expanded water quality monitoring, including the deployment of a network of coastal pH and nutrient sensors
  • Implements new regulations to reduce nutrient runoff from agricultural operations, wastewater treatment plants, and other sources
  • Offers tax credits and incentives for businesses and individuals to adopt practices that reduce their carbon footprint and nutrient outputs
  • Establishes a Coastal Acidification and Nutrient Pollution Mitigation Fund to support local adaptation and restoration projects

Affected Parties and Impacts

This bill would have far-reaching impacts on a variety of stakeholders:

  • Coastal communities and marine-dependent industries (e.g., fisheries, aquaculture, tourism) would benefit from improved water quality and ecosystem health
  • Farmers, wastewater utilities, and other businesses would need to adapt to new nutrient reduction requirements, but could also access incentives and support
  • State and local governments would take on new responsibilities for coordinating the statewide response and implementing mitigation strategies
  • The general public would enjoy the environmental and economic benefits of healthier coastal and marine environments

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

HD 691 has been introduced in the state legislature and is currently under review by the Joint Committee on Environment, Natural Resources, and Agriculture. If passed, the bill would require the Coastal Acidification and Nutrient Pollution Task Force to be convened within 6 months, with the statewide action plan due within 18 months. Implementation of new regulations and funding programs would follow, with regular progress reporting to the legislature.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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