Chesapeake WATERS Act
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House
- To President
- Became Law
Overview
This bill reauthorizes the Chesapeake Bay Office of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), solidifying its role as the primary representative of NOAA in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. It expands the Office’s responsibilities to include a broader focus on coastal hazards, climate change, and education, and strengthens its collaboration with the Chesapeake Executive Council and other organizations. The bill also aims to improve the monitoring and management of Chesapeake Bay living resources and habitats through enhanced research, data collection, and restoration efforts.
Key provisions
- Reauthorizes the Chesapeake Bay Office of NOAA and establishes a Director with specific expertise requirements.
- Expands the Office’s focus to include coastal hazards, climate change, and education.
- Strengthens collaboration with the Chesapeake Executive Council and the Chesapeake Bay Program.
- Authorizes a Chesapeake Bay watershed education and training program to enhance understanding of the ecosystem.
- Establishes a Chesapeake Bay Coastal Living Resources Management and Habitat Program to protect and restore priority habitats and species.
- Creates a regional coastal observing system to improve environmental data collection and forecasting.
- Requires biennial reports to Congress outlining the Office’s activities and progress.
- Allows the Director to enter into agreements with various entities to support Chesapeake Bay conservation efforts.
Who is affected
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Sponsors
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4 on record
Primary sponsor
Cosponsors
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