Enhancing Science, Treatment, and Upkeep of America’s Resilient and Important Estuarine Systems Act; ESTUARIES Act
Summary
H.R. 3962, the ESTUARIES Act, amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to reauthorize the National Estuary Program. It specifically adds Mississippi Sound, Mississippi, to the list of estuaries eligible for the program. The bill also extends the authorization of the program through 2031.
Expected Effects
The bill will expand the National Estuary Program to include Mississippi Sound, potentially improving water quality and ecosystem health in that region. The reauthorization through 2031 provides long-term stability and funding for estuary conservation efforts. However, the bill restricts the use of funds for the Mississippi Sound addition in fiscal years 2025 and potentially 2026, depending on appropriation levels.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced environmental protection for Mississippi Sound.
- Long-term funding stability for the National Estuary Program.
- Potential for improved water quality and ecosystem health in participating estuaries.
- Increased collaboration among stakeholders in estuary management.
- Support for scientific research and monitoring of estuarine ecosystems.
Potential Disadvantages
- Delayed implementation for Mississippi Sound due to funding restrictions in 2025 and potentially 2026.
- Potential for insufficient funding if appropriations for 2026 do not meet the specified threshold.
- Limited scope, focusing primarily on estuaries and not addressing broader water pollution issues.
- Possible administrative burden associated with expanding the program to include additional estuaries.
- The bill does not address other critical environmental issues.
Constitutional Alignment
This bill aligns with the General Welfare Clause of the Constitution, as it aims to protect and improve the environment, which can contribute to the well-being of the American people. The bill's focus on water pollution control also falls under Congress's power to regulate interstate commerce, as navigable waterways are often involved. Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to legislate on matters concerning the general welfare and regulation of commerce.
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).