American Seabed Protection Act
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To President
- Became Law
Overview
The American Seabed Protection Act prohibits certain mining activities on the deep seabed and Outer Continental Shelf. It’s based on international scientific consensus and UN resolutions highlighting the potential harm to marine ecosystems from deep seabed mining. The bill directs a study to assess the environmental impacts of such mining and explores alternatives to mineral extraction, aiming to protect vulnerable marine environments and biodiversity. It also establishes a process for seeking input from relevant Congressional committees and scientific experts.
Key provisions
- Prohibits licenses, permits, and authorizations for exploration or commercial recovery on the deep seabed.
- Prohibits licenses, permits, and authorizations for exploration, development, or production of hardrock minerals on the Outer Continental Shelf.
- Allows for scientific research activities related to deep seabed mining, exempting them from the prohibitions.
- Directs the Secretary of Commerce to initiate a comprehensive study of the environmental impacts of deep seabed mining.
- Requires the study to assess impacts on ecosystems, greenhouse gas sequestration, marine users, and indigenous communities.
- Encourages the exploration of mineral reuse, recycling, and substitute materials.
- Designates specific Congressional committees to oversee the study and related activities.
- Defines key terms related to mining and seabed areas.
Who is affected
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