Modernizing Access to Our Public Oceans Act
Summary
The Modernizing Access to Our Public Oceans Act aims to standardize, publish, and improve the accessibility of data related to public outdoor recreational use of Federal waterways. This includes data on fishing restrictions, recreational vessel use in the exclusive economic zone, and access to Federal waters. The Act mandates the Secretary of Commerce to develop data standards and make geographic information system (GIS) data publicly available through a user-friendly website.
Expected Effects
The Act will likely lead to increased transparency and ease of access to information regarding recreational use of Federal waterways. This could improve recreational experiences and safety, while also aiding in the management and conservation of marine resources. The Act also emphasizes cooperation among various governmental and non-governmental entities.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced access to information regarding fishing restrictions and recreational areas.
- Improved safety for recreational boaters and divers through readily available data.
- Better coordination among Federal, State, and Tribal entities in managing waterways.
- Increased public awareness of marine protected areas and authorized activities.
- Potential for economic benefits through increased recreational tourism.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential costs associated with developing and maintaining the required data systems and website.
- Possible privacy concerns related to the collection and dissemination of recreational use data, although the bill includes provisions for nondisclosure of certain information.
- Risk of inconsistent data interpretation or misuse by the public.
- Potential for increased regulatory burden on recreational users if data leads to stricter enforcement.
- The Act's effectiveness depends on the quality and timeliness of the data provided.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act appears to align with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3) of the U.S. Constitution, which grants Congress the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations, among the several states, and with Indian tribes. By standardizing and publishing data related to the use of Federal waterways, the Act facilitates interstate commerce and recreational activities. The Act also respects the rights of Indian tribes, as it does not apply to usual or accustomed fishing areas or Tribal waters.
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).