Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2016

Floor Speech

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Mr. WHITEHOUSE. Madam President, I am joined by Senator Thune, the chair of the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, to discuss title IX--National Oceans and Coastal Security, of Division O of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2016. The legislation on which this title was based, the National Oceans and Coastal Security Act, S. 2025, is a bill I introduced earlier this year, which was referred to the Senate Commerce Committee. I appreciate the assistance Senator Thune and his committee staff have provided on this legislation.

The National Oceans and Coastal Security Act establishes a fund to support research, conservation, and restoration projects on our coasts and in our oceans and Great Lakes. The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--two organizations with significant expertise in ocean, coastal, and Great Lakes issues, as well as managing grants--will coordinate the grant programs supported by the fund.

I thank Senator Thune for joining me today to help clarify this important legislation.

As you know, our coastal communities and marine economies depend upon healthy oceans and Great Lakes. The projects supported by this fund will provide the science and on-the-ground action that will help ensure a healthy environment and vibrant economy for generations to come.

Any money appropriated or otherwise made available to the fund will be used to ``support programs and activities intended to better understand and utilize ocean and coastal resources and coastal infrastructure, including baseline scientific research, ocean observing, and other programs and activities.''

Funds may not be used for litigation or advocacy, or the creation of national marine monuments, marine protected areas, marine spatial plans, or a National Ocean Policy. It is the intent of the authors that no grants be provided through this fund for the creation or federal implementation of any of these programs or policies. With specific regard to the National Ocean Policy, its creation has already occurred by Executive order, and its implementation is the responsibility of the National Ocean Council. It is the expectation of the authors that no funds would be used to support the activities of the National Ocean Council.

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Mr. WHITEHOUSE. Thank you for making that important point. I would like to further highlight that the legislation authorizes two grant programs. The first would direct funding to coastal States, Indian tribes, and U.S. territories. The other would create a national competitive grant program open to States, local governments, and Indian tribes, as well as associations, nongovernmental organizations, public- private partnerships, and academic institutions to support oceans and coastal research and restoration efforts.

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Source