H.R.2620 - Save Our Seas 2.0 Amendments Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2620, the Save Our Seas 2.0 Amendments Act, aims to improve the administration of the Marine Debris Foundation and the Marine Debris Program of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The bill modifies the Marine Debris Act and the Save Our Seas 2.0 Act to enhance the effectiveness of marine debris removal and prevention efforts. It addresses administrative and operational aspects of these programs, including grant management, board appointments, and definitions.
The bill also focuses on improving outreach and technical assistance to Indian Tribes and Tribal Governments. It ensures that the Foundation develops best practices for engaging with these groups and promotes awareness of available programs and grants. The Act also reauthorizes appropriations for the Marine Debris Act through fiscal year 2029.
Overall, the bill seeks to streamline operations, clarify roles, and expand the scope of activities related to marine debris management, with a particular emphasis on engaging tribal communities and improving the Foundation's governance.
Expected Effects
The Save Our Seas 2.0 Amendments Act will likely lead to more efficient and effective marine debris removal and prevention programs. Enhanced administration and clarified roles within the Marine Debris Foundation and NOAA's Marine Debris Program are expected.
Increased engagement with Indian Tribes and Tribal Governments will likely result in better-targeted and more effective marine debris management strategies in tribal areas. The reauthorization of appropriations ensures continued funding for these critical programs.
Ultimately, the bill aims to reduce marine debris, protect marine ecosystems, and support coastal communities by improving the governance and operational aspects of existing marine debris management initiatives.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced administration of the Marine Debris Program and Foundation, leading to more efficient use of resources.
- Improved outreach and technical assistance to Indian Tribes and Tribal Governments, addressing marine debris issues in tribal lands and waters.
- Continued funding for marine debris removal and prevention efforts through reauthorization of appropriations.
- Clarified roles and responsibilities within the Foundation and NOAA, promoting better coordination and accountability.
- Promotion of best practices for engaging with Indian Tribes and Tribal Governments, ensuring culturally sensitive and effective strategies.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased bureaucracy and administrative overhead due to the modifications and transfers of sections within the Acts.
- Risk that the focus on administrative changes may divert attention and resources from on-the-ground debris removal efforts.
- Possible delays in implementation as the Foundation and NOAA adjust to the new requirements and procedures.
- The effectiveness of the outreach to Indian Tribes and Tribal Governments will depend on the actual implementation of the best practices.
- No direct measures to reduce the production of plastic or other waste that ends up as marine debris.
Constitutional Alignment
The Save Our Seas 2.0 Amendments Act appears to align with the US Constitution, particularly the General Welfare Clause (Article I, Section 8), which allows Congress to enact laws that promote the well-being of the nation. By addressing marine debris, the Act aims to protect the environment and support coastal communities, thus contributing to the general welfare.
Additionally, the Act's provisions related to Indian Tribes and Tribal Governments are consistent with the federal government's trust responsibility to these groups. The Act does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Furthermore, the Act's focus on administrative improvements and program reauthorization falls within the scope of Congress's legislative powers, as outlined in Article I, Section 1.
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).