Coastal and Ocean Observation Bill
Official: To reauthorize the Integrated Coastal and Ocean Observation System Act of 2009.
This bill aims to keep funding and support for monitoring coastal and ocean conditions, which helps with research and data collection. It is important for understanding environmental changes and managing ocean resources effectively.
This bill reauthorizes and modifies the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Integrated Ocean Observation System (IOOS). (The IOOS is made up of radar, gliders, buoys, vessels, and different models and forecasts that collect data points to monitor and report on conditions along the nation's coasts and in marine waters.) Specifically, the bill reauthorizes the IOOS through FY2030. The bill also directs the Interagency Ocean Observation Committee (which coordinates interagency planning, budgeting, and assessments for the system) to develop requirements and processes for regional offices and federally funded projects of the agencies of the committee to collaborate with the regional coastal observing systems for data sharing at regional levels.
1. This bill continues funding for the Integrated Coastal and Ocean Observation System. 2. It changes the name of a key committee involved in ocean research. 3. The bill ensures collaboration between regional offices and coastal observing systems. 4. It allocates $56 million each year from 2026 to 2030 for this system. 5. The bill updates language to include ocean measurements alongside weather data.