An Act To amend the Digital Coast Act to improve the acquisition, integration, and accessibility of data of the Digital Coast program and to extend the program.
Summary
This Act amends the Digital Coast Act to enhance the acquisition, integration, and accessibility of data within the Digital Coast program. It mandates that data be 'fully and freely available,' includes underground infrastructure and subsurface utilities data, and limits training to technical instruction. The Act also extends the program's duration to 2030.
Expected Effects
The changes will likely improve the availability and usability of coastal data for various stakeholders. Extending the program ensures continued data collection and support for coastal management and planning. The limitation on training scope could, however, restrict broader educational opportunities.
Potential Benefits
- Improved access to coastal data for researchers, policymakers, and the public.
- Enhanced data integration leading to better coastal management decisions.
- Support for understanding and managing underground infrastructure.
- Continued operation of the Digital Coast program through 2030.
- Freely available data promotes transparency and informed decision-making.
Potential Disadvantages
- Limiting training to technical instruction may reduce the program's educational impact.
- Potential costs associated with acquiring and integrating new data types (e.g., underground infrastructure).
- No clear guidance on how 'fully and freely available' data will be protected from misuse.
- The act does not address potential privacy concerns related to increased data accessibility.
- The act does not address how the program will adapt to emerging technologies.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act aligns with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Preamble) by promoting better coastal management and data accessibility. Congress's authority to enact this legislation stems from Article I, Section 8, which grants it the power to regulate commerce and provide for the general welfare. The Act does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).