OCEANS-21 (HR21)
OCEANS-21 (HR 21: Ocean Conservation, Education, & National Strategy for the 21st Century Act) was introduced by one of our Ocean Champions in Congress, Rep. Sam Farr (D-Ca, 17th). The bill would be the first comprehensive national oceans policy if passed.
The purpose of OCEANS-21 is to implement the highest priority recommendations of the U.S. Commission on Ocean Policy and Pew Oceans Commission by enacting legislation that seeks to protect, maintain, and restore the health and sustainability of our coasts, oceans, and Great Lakes for current and future generations.
What the Bill Will Do:
- Establish a comprehensive National Oceans Policy and guiding principles for use and management of U.S. coasts, oceans, and Great Lakes and their resources;
- Formally codify the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), strengthening its important mission and functions;
- Enhance national oceans governance structure, including codifying the Committee on Ocean Policy;Promote ecosystem-based, regional oceans governance, including collaborations among federal, state, and local management entities;
- Enhance responsible ocean stewardship through education, information collection, and citizen involvement; andEstablish an Oceans and Great Lakes Conservation Trust Fund to support the purposes and policies of this Act.
Help us pass what could be the first national oceans policy!
This is an Ocean Champions Priority Issue, learn more about OCEANS-21 here.
Click here to learn more about OCEANS-21 (HR21)