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HR 676

Coastal Communities Ocean Acidification Act of 2023

118th Congress Introduced by Suzanne Bonamici and 20 co-sponsors

The Coastal Communities Ocean Acidification Act boosts Indian Tribes' roles in federal research, enhancing coastal resilience against ocean acidification's impacts.

Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.
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Bill Summary · HR 676

Summary of HR 676: Coastal Communities Ocean Acidification Act of 2023

Purpose and Intent

The Coastal Communities Ocean Acidification Act of 2023 (HR 676) aims to enhance the involvement of Indian Tribes in federal ocean acidification research and monitoring efforts. The bill amends the Federal Ocean Acidification Research and Monitoring Act of 2009 to ensure that the Secretary of Commerce, through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), collaborates with state and local governments as well as Indian Tribes on vulnerability assessments and research planning related to ocean acidification.

Key Provisions

  • Collaboration Enhancement: The bill mandates that NOAA work closely with Indian Tribes, state, and local governments to assess vulnerabilities and plan research concerning ocean acidification.
  • Representation: It designates two seats on the Interagency Working Group on Ocean Acidification for representatives from Indian Tribes, ensuring their voices are included in decision-making processes.
  • Ongoing Engagement: The bill establishes mechanisms for continuous engagement with affected communities to gather input on research, data, and monitoring necessary for effective management of ocean acidification impacts.

Background and Need

Ocean acidification, caused by increased carbon dioxide absorption, poses significant risks to coastal economies and ecosystems. Coastal areas contribute approximately 45% of the U.S. GDP and support nearly three million jobs directly linked to ocean resources. Many coastal communities are already experiencing negative effects from ocean acidification, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive research and community involvement to mitigate these impacts.

Legislative History

  • Introduced: January 31, 2023, by Representative Chellie Pingree (D-ME) with bipartisan support from various cosponsors.
  • Committee Approval: The bill was favorably reported by the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology on March 29, 2023, with a unanimous vote of 35-0.
  • House Passage: The bill passed the House on May 9, 2023, with a vote of 351-58.
  • Senate Status: As of May 10, 2023, the bill has been received in the Senate, read twice, and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.

Impact

The Coastal Communities Ocean Acidification Act of 2023 is expected to:
- Strengthen the role of Indian Tribes in federal ocean management efforts.
- Improve the understanding of ocean acidification's social and economic effects on coastal communities.
- Foster collaborative research efforts that can lead to better preparedness and response strategies for affected communities.

Conclusion

HR 676 represents a significant step toward integrating Indigenous knowledge and perspectives into federal ocean acidification initiatives, thereby enhancing the resilience of coastal communities facing the challenges posed by changing ocean conditions.

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

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