Enhancing Science, Treatment, and Upkeep of America’s Resilient and Important Estuarine Systems Act; ESTUARIES Act
Summary
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 Act also extends the reauthorization of the program through 2031.
Expected Effects
This Act will expand the National Estuary Program to include Mississippi Sound, potentially leading to increased conservation and management efforts in that area. The reauthorization through 2031 provides long-term stability for the program. However, funding for the Mississippi Sound inclusion is restricted for fiscal years 2025 and 2026 unless certain funding thresholds are met.
Potential Benefits
- Increased funding and resources for the Mississippi Sound estuary.
- Long-term stability for the National Estuary Program through 2031.
- Potential for improved water quality and habitat restoration in participating estuaries.
- Enhanced collaboration among federal, state, and local 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.
- The requirement for increased overall program funding in 2026 to fully implement the Mississippi Sound inclusion may be difficult to achieve.
- Potential for administrative burden associated with expanding the program to include a new estuary.
- The Act does not address broader issues of water pollution beyond the scope of the National Estuary Program.
- Limited impact on estuaries outside of the National Estuary Program.
Constitutional Alignment
This Act appears to align with the General Welfare Clause of the Constitution, as it aims to protect and improve estuarine ecosystems, which can benefit public health and the environment. Congress's power to regulate water pollution is also supported by the Commerce Clause, as water quality can affect interstate commerce. Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to enact laws necessary and proper for carrying out its enumerated powers.
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).