H.R.2991 - Ocean Acidification Research Partnerships Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 2991, the Ocean Acidification Research Partnerships Act, aims to enhance collaborative research on ocean acidification by providing grants for projects developed jointly by the seafood industry and the academic community. The bill amends the Federal Ocean Acidification Research and Monitoring Act of 2009 to establish these grant opportunities. It outlines criteria for grant approval, prioritization, implementation guidelines, and reporting requirements.
The Act emphasizes partnerships between the seafood industry and academic researchers to address the impacts of ocean acidification. It also specifies that the Secretary (likely of Commerce, via NOAA) will administer the grant program.
Finally, the bill authorizes appropriations of $5,000,000 per year for fiscal years 2026 through 2030 to fund these research grants.
Expected Effects
The likely effect of this bill is increased research and monitoring efforts focused on ocean acidification and its impact on the seafood industry. These grants should foster collaboration between academic institutions and industry stakeholders, leading to more practical and applicable research outcomes. Ultimately, this could inform better strategies for mitigating and adapting to ocean acidification.
This will likely lead to a better understanding of ocean acidification. It will also help the seafood industry adapt to changing ocean conditions.
Finally, the bill could also lead to the development of new technologies and practices to reduce the impact of ocean acidification.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced understanding of ocean acidification and its effects on marine ecosystems.
- Strengthened partnerships between the seafood industry and academic researchers.
- Development of practical solutions and adaptation strategies for the seafood industry.
- Increased awareness of ocean acidification among stakeholders and the public.
- Support for ecosystems and communities vulnerable to ocean acidification.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for bureaucratic delays in grant implementation and distribution.
- Risk of research being skewed towards industry interests rather than broader ecological concerns.
- Limited funding may restrict the scope and impact of research projects.
- Matching requirements could pose a barrier for smaller seafood businesses or academic institutions.
- Possible overlap or duplication of existing research efforts.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the General Welfare Clause of the U.S. Constitution (Preamble), as it aims to promote the well-being of both the environment and the economy by addressing ocean acidification. Congress has the power to enact legislation deemed necessary and proper to carry out its enumerated powers (Article I, Section 8).
Furthermore, the bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific individual liberties or rights protected by the Bill of Rights. The focus on research and collaboration falls within the scope of permissible legislative action.
However, the specific implementation and allocation of funds would need to be carefully managed to ensure fairness and avoid any potential violations of equal protection principles.
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).