H.R.347 - Sea Turtle Rescue Assistance and Rehabilitation Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 347, the Sea Turtle Rescue Assistance and Rehabilitation Act of 2025, aims to establish a grant program for sea turtle rescue and rehabilitation. The bill amends the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 to include specific provisions for sea turtle rescue, rehabilitation, and response efforts. It also establishes a dedicated fund within the Treasury for these activities.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely lead to increased funding and resources for sea turtle rescue and rehabilitation efforts. This includes creating a grant program and a dedicated fund. The bill also sets specific eligibility criteria for entities seeking these grants, ensuring compliance with existing endangered species protections.
Potential Benefits
- Increased funding for sea turtle rescue and rehabilitation programs.
- Enhanced protection for endangered sea turtle populations.
- Improved data collection and reporting on sea turtle strandings.
- Support for organizations and institutions involved in sea turtle conservation.
- Potential for increased public awareness and engagement in sea turtle conservation efforts.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential strain on existing resources within the Department of Commerce and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
- Possible bureaucratic hurdles in establishing and administering the grant program.
- The sunset clause after 7 years introduces uncertainty about the long-term sustainability of the program.
- Reliance on appropriations, which may vary and affect the program's effectiveness.
- Potential for increased regulatory burden on organizations involved in sea turtle rescue and rehabilitation.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the General Welfare Clause of the U.S. Constitution, as it promotes the well-being of wildlife and the environment. Specifically, the establishment of a grant program and dedicated fund for sea turtle rescue and rehabilitation can be seen as an effort to "promote the general Welfare". The bill 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).