S.1392 - Ocean Regional Opportunity and Innovation Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
The Ocean Regional Opportunity and Innovation Act of 2025 (S.1392) aims to bolster coastal communities and the ocean economy by establishing Ocean Innovation Clusters. These clusters will focus on technological research and development, job training, and cross-sector partnerships within the "Blue Economy."
The bill directs the Secretary of Commerce to designate at least seven eligible entities as Ocean Innovation Clusters, prioritizing those with a history of supporting the Blue Economy. The Act also establishes Ocean Innovation Centers for Cross-Sector Collaboration to foster innovation and strengthen regional ocean sector economies.
Finally, the bill authorizes grants for Ocean Innovation Clusters, with appropriations of $10,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2026 through 2030, to support their operation and administration.
Expected Effects
The Act is likely to stimulate economic growth in coastal regions by fostering innovation and creating jobs within the Blue Economy. It will also enhance collaboration between various sectors, including businesses, academic institutions, and governmental entities.
Furthermore, the Act may lead to advancements in sustainable ocean resource development and improved coastal resilience. The establishment of Ocean Innovation Centers will provide physical spaces for collaboration and entrepreneurship.
Potential Benefits
- Increased job creation and economic growth in coastal communities.
- Enhanced collaboration between businesses, academic institutions, and government agencies.
- Promotion of sustainable ocean resource development and innovation.
- Improved workforce development and training opportunities in the Blue Economy.
- Strengthened coastal resilience to natural disasters.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for bureaucratic inefficiencies in the designation and management of Ocean Innovation Clusters.
- Risk of funds being disproportionately allocated to certain regions or sectors.
- Possible challenges in coordinating efforts across multiple federal agencies.
- Limited funding may not be sufficient to address all the needs of the Blue Economy.
- Dependence on the Secretary of Commerce's discretion in designating clusters, which could be subject to political influence.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill 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. The Act's focus on promoting economic development and innovation in the ocean sector falls under the purview of interstate and international commerce.
Furthermore, the Act's provisions for funding and grants are consistent with Congress's power to appropriate funds for the general welfare (Article I, Section 8, Clause 1). The Act does not appear to infringe upon any individual liberties or rights protected by the Bill of Rights.
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).