It was held at the desk rather than sent to a committee, so it can be taken up directly.
Science, Technology, CommunicationsState and local government operationsEnvironmental assessment, monitoring, researchMarine and coastal resources, fisheriesComputers and information technologyInternet, web applications, social mediaIntergovernmental relations
Why This Matters
This bill updates the Digital Coast program to improve how data is collected and shared, making it more accessible for everyone. It also extends the program's funding and operation for several more years.
If you live near the coast, you could gain better access to important data about your area.
Who this affects
Coastal communities · Researchers · Anyone needing coastal data
What changes is this bill making?
1This bill makes data from the Digital Coast program easier to access and use.
2It requires new data to include information about underground infrastructure.
3The bill extends the Digital Coast program's operation until 2030.
4It limits training to technical instruction on using the provided data and tools.
5The bill ensures data is fully and freely available to the public.
Read the detailed summary
This bill reauthorizes through FY2030 the Digital Coast program managed by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and makes other changes to the program.
Through the program, NOAA administers a digital platform with data, tools, training, and other information to support coastal management needs.
The bill requires NOAA to ensure that data and resulting integrated products developed under the program are fully and freely available on the program website and via other sources.
Further, NOAA must support existing efforts to acquire and integrate data related to underground infrastructure and subsurface utilities.
Finally, NOAA must limit trainings carried out under the program to technical instruction on the use of data and tools provided by the program.
