Introduction of the Abandoned and Derelict Vessels Removal Act of 2024

Floor Speech

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Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, today I introduce the ``Abandoned and Derelict Vessels Removal Act of 2024,'' which builds upon legislation by the same title sponsored by the late Congressman Pete Stark (D-CA) in 1997.

As detailed in a blue-ribbon report published by the State of California and other Pacific State's Oil Spill Task Force in 2020, the problem of abandoned and derelict vessels is a pervasive problem. Vessel owners abandon personal and commercial boats due to damage from severe storms, high maintenance and disposal costs, and many other factors. Abandoned and derelict vessels are a safety hazard, blight to our waterways, and eyesore. As these vessels decay, they pollute our waterways with debris, fiberglass from hulls, leftover gasoline, motor oil, battery fluids, and other harmful chemicals. This endangers people enjoying the water and harms the environment.

My new bill legislates the 2020 blue-ribbon report's recommendations, improving the intergovernmental response to abandoned and derelict vessels. Specifically, my bill would unlock up to $1.5 billion annually from the federal Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund to remove abandoned vessels at no expense to taxpayers. Under current law, federal responders can only tap the Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund for the costs of stopping fuel leaks from vessels. My bill would also hold those dumping their derelict vessels in our waterways accountable. Every vessel removed is one step closer to keeping our working waterfronts and waterways safe and clean for all to enjoy.

Mr. Speaker, I look forward to working across the aisle to advance the proposed reforms in my bill. As a senior member of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, I plan to legislate key provisions from my bill in the coming ``Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2024'' and the ``Water Resources Development Act of 2024.'' I encourage all Members of the House to join me in cosponsoring this commonsense bill.

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