S.216 - Save Our Seas 2.0 Amendments Act (119th Congress)
Summary
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). It modifies the Marine Debris Act and the Save Our Seas 2.0 Act to enhance the effectiveness of marine debris removal and prevention efforts. The bill also addresses the structure and operations of the Marine Debris Foundation, including board appointments and the role of the chief executive officer.
Key changes include transferring subtitles within the acts, redefining terms, and adjusting the authorization of appropriations. The Act also emphasizes outreach to Indian Tribes and Tribal Governments, ensuring best practices for engagement and clarifying that the Act does not affect treaty rights or government-to-government consultation requirements.
Overall, the amendments seek to streamline administrative processes, improve coordination, and increase the impact of marine debris reduction programs.
Expected Effects
This act will likely result in more efficient management of marine debris programs. It will clarify roles and responsibilities within NOAA and the Marine Debris Foundation. Increased funding authorization and improved outreach to tribal communities are also expected.
The amendments aim to enhance the effectiveness of marine debris removal and prevention efforts. This includes better coordination between federal agencies, non-profit organizations, and tribal governments.
Ultimately, the Act is intended to lead to cleaner oceans and coastal areas. This will be achieved through improved program administration and increased stakeholder engagement.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced Marine Debris Removal: Improved administration and funding for marine debris removal programs.
- Improved Coordination: Better coordination between NOAA, the Marine Debris Foundation, and other stakeholders.
- Tribal Engagement: Specific provisions for outreach and engagement with Indian Tribes and Tribal Governments.
- Increased Funding: Additional funding authorized for the Marine Debris Foundation.
- Clarified Roles: Clearer definition of roles and responsibilities within the Marine Debris Foundation.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential Bureaucracy: Increased administrative requirements could slow down project implementation.
- Limited Scope: The act primarily focuses on administrative changes rather than addressing the root causes of marine debris.
- Dependence on Appropriations: The effectiveness of the act depends on Congress appropriating the authorized funds.
- Uncertainty of Impact: The actual impact on marine debris levels may be difficult to measure.
- Possible Delays: Transferring sections of acts could lead to initial confusion and delays.
Constitutional Alignment
The Save Our Seas 2.0 Amendments Act appears to align with the US Constitution. It falls under Congress's power to regulate commerce (Article I, Section 8) as marine debris impacts interstate and international waters. The Act also promotes the general welfare, as stated in the Preamble.
The Act's provisions for engaging with Indian Tribes and Tribal Governments are consistent with the federal government's trust responsibility. This is implicitly recognized in the Constitution and further defined through treaties and statutes.
No specific constitutional conflicts are apparent. The Act does not infringe on individual liberties or 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).