Save Our Seas 2.0 Amendments Act
Summary
The Save Our Seas 2.0 Amendments Act modifies the existing Save Our Seas 2.0 Act and the Marine Debris Act. It aims to improve the administration of the Marine Debris Foundation and the Marine Debris Program of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The Act also addresses marine debris issues and promotes a circular economy.
Key changes include transferring and redesignating sections within the Marine Debris Act, modifying the structure and powers of the Marine Debris Foundation, and updating definitions related to marine debris and tribal governments. The Act also includes provisions for in-kind contributions to projects and best practices for outreach to Indian Tribes and Tribal Governments.
Furthermore, the Act reauthorizes appropriations for carrying out the Marine Debris Act through 2029 and expands the entities eligible to receive funding.
Expected Effects
The Act will likely lead to more efficient administration of marine debris programs and the Marine Debris Foundation. It should enhance the ability of NOAA and the Foundation to address marine debris issues through grants, cooperative agreements, and contracts.
Increased engagement with Indian Tribes and Tribal Governments is also expected, potentially leading to more effective and culturally sensitive solutions to marine debris. The reauthorization of appropriations ensures continued funding for these programs.
The changes to definitions and organizational structure aim to clarify roles and responsibilities, which should streamline operations.
Potential Benefits
- Improved administration of the Marine Debris Program and Foundation.
- Increased engagement with Indian Tribes and Tribal Governments.
- Continued funding for marine debris reduction efforts through 2029.
- Clarified roles and responsibilities within the Marine Debris Foundation.
- Promotion of a circular economy to reduce waste and marine debris.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased bureaucracy due to the restructuring of the Marine Debris Act.
- Possible delays in project implementation during the transition period.
- The shift in administrative roles might create temporary confusion among stakeholders.
- In-kind contributions may be difficult to value and manage effectively.
- No clearly defined metrics for measuring the success of the best practices for tribal outreach.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act aligns with the General Welfare Clause (Article I, Section 8) of the U.S. Constitution by promoting environmental protection and addressing marine debris, which can positively impact public health and the environment. The Act does not appear to infringe upon any specific individual rights or liberties protected by the Constitution or its amendments.
The Act's provisions regarding Indian Tribes and Tribal Governments are consistent with the federal government's trust responsibility and its power to regulate commerce with Indian tribes (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3). The Act explicitly states that it does not affect or modify any treaty or other right of any Tribal Government.
Overall, the Act appears to be within the constitutional authority of Congress to enact legislation related to environmental protection and the administration of federal programs.
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).