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HB 38

RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Mark Hashem

HB 38 establishes the Alabama Seagrass Restoration Task Force to combat seagrass loss, promoting ecological health and economic benefits in coastal waters.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
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Bill Summary · HB 38

Summary of HB 38: Alabama Seagrass Restoration Task Force

Bill Number: HB 38
Title: State waters; Alabama Seagrass Restoration Task Force established to remediate seagrass loss within state marine waters
Status: Read for the first time and referred to the House Committee on Ports, Waterways and Intermodal Transit
Introduced: August 14, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Conservation & Natural Resources

Purpose and Intent

The primary aim of HB 38 is to establish the Alabama Seagrass Restoration Task Force. This task force will focus on addressing the significant loss of seagrass in Alabama's marine waters, which has ecological and economic repercussions. The bill seeks to foster collaboration among various stakeholders, including public and private research entities, to develop effective restoration technologies and strategies.

Key Provisions

  • Establishment of the Task Force:

    • The Alabama Seagrass Restoration Task Force will be created to lead efforts in formulating, testing, and developing innovative and sustainable technologies for restoring coastal seagrass ecosystems.

  • Membership Composition:

    • The task force will consist of:
    • The executive director of the Dauphin Island Sea Lab (cochair)
    • The President of the University of South Alabama (cochair)
    • The Chair of the House of Representatives Ports, Waterways, and Intermodal Transit Committee
    • The Commissioner of Conservation and Natural Resources or a designated expert
    • The Director of the Mobile Bay National Estuary Program
    • A representative from a private commercial enterprise appointed by the Governor
    • A representative from a public or private university (other than the University of South Alabama) appointed by the President Pro Tempore of the Senate
    • Two members from marine environmental organizations, appointed by the Speaker of the House and the Lieutenant Governor

  • Development of a Restoration Plan:

    • The task force is tasked with creating a 10-year Alabama Seagrass Restoration Plan, which will outline recommended tools, approaches, and technologies for seagrass restoration.

  • Diversity and Inclusion:

    • The bill emphasizes that task force membership should reflect the racial, gender, geographic, urban, rural, and economic diversity of Alabama.

  • Meetings and Reporting:

    • The initial meeting of the task force must occur by January 1, 2027, with subsequent meetings scheduled at least twice a year.
    • An annual report detailing progress, findings, and recommendations must be submitted to key state officials at the beginning of each legislative session.

  • Fiscal Management:

    • The Dauphin Island Sea Lab will serve as the fiscal agent for the task force, managing appropriated funds and facilitating engagement with other marine science organizations.

Impact

The establishment of the Alabama Seagrass Restoration Task Force is expected to have a significant impact on the health of Alabama's marine ecosystems. By addressing seagrass loss, the task force aims to mitigate ecological damage and enhance the economic benefits derived from healthy coastal environments. The collaborative approach outlined in the bill may lead to innovative solutions that can be applied both locally and beyond.

Timeline

  • Effective Date: The act will become effective on October 1, 2026.
  • Legislative Actions:
    • August 14, 2025: Bill filed
    • January 13, 2026: Read for the first time and referred to the House Committee on Ports, Waterways and Intermodal Transit

This summary provides an overview of HB 38, detailing its purpose, key provisions, and potential impacts on Alabama's marine resources and ecosystems.

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

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