H.R.3814 - Puerto Rico Business & Economic Assessment of Coastal Hazards and Erosion Study Act; Puerto Rico BEACHES Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3814, the Puerto Rico Business & Economic Assessment of Coastal Hazards and Erosion Study Act, directs the Comptroller General to conduct a study on the effects of coastal erosion on tourism, fisheries, and businesses in Puerto Rico. The study will assess the impact of losing beaches, dunes, and wetlands. The Comptroller General must coordinate with local agencies like the Puerto Rico Department of Natural and Environmental Resources.
Expected Effects
The bill's primary effect will be the creation of a report to Congress detailing the economic impacts of coastal erosion in Puerto Rico. This report will include recommendations on how to ameliorate environmental factors affecting businesses and address challenges faced by industries due to erosion. The study aims to inform future policy decisions related to coastal management and economic development in Puerto Rico.
Potential Benefits
- Provides data-driven insights into the economic impact of coastal erosion on Puerto Rico.
- Could lead to better-informed policies and strategies for coastal management and economic development.
- May help protect and preserve Puerto Rico's natural resources and cultural heritage.
- Could support the tourism and fisheries industries by addressing erosion-related challenges.
- Could result in recommendations for mitigating environmental factors affecting businesses.
Potential Disadvantages
- The study itself may require allocation of resources and funding.
- The report's recommendations may not be fully implemented or effective.
- The study's scope is limited to Puerto Rico, potentially overlooking broader regional impacts.
- Potential delays in completing and submitting the report to Congress.
- The study may not fully capture all the complexities of coastal erosion and its impacts.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the General Welfare Clause of the U.S. Constitution, as it aims to promote the economic well-being of Puerto Rico by studying and addressing coastal erosion. Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to enact laws necessary and proper for carrying out its enumerated powers, which can be interpreted to include conducting studies to inform policy decisions related to economic development and environmental protection.
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).