R.I.C.E.’s Whale Act

Bill 118 hr 6008, also known as the R.I.C.E.'s Whale Act, is a piece of legislation introduced in the US Congress with the aim of protecting whales and other marine mammals. The bill is named after renowned marine biologist Dr. Rachel I. Carson Edwards, who has dedicated her career to studying and advocating for the conservation of whales.

The R.I.C.E.'s Whale Act seeks to address several key issues facing whales, including ship strikes, entanglement in fishing gear, and noise pollution. The bill proposes measures to reduce the risk of ship strikes by implementing speed restrictions in areas where whales are known to frequent. It also calls for the development of new technologies to detect and avoid whales in shipping lanes.

In addition, the bill aims to reduce the number of whales becoming entangled in fishing gear by promoting the use of whale-safe fishing practices. This includes the use of gear modifications and the implementation of seasonal closures in areas where whales are most at risk. Furthermore, the R.I.C.E.'s Whale Act addresses the issue of noise pollution in the ocean, which can disrupt whale communication and navigation. The bill proposes measures to reduce underwater noise from shipping, seismic surveys, and other human activities that can harm whales. Overall, the R.I.C.E.'s Whale Act is a comprehensive piece of legislation that aims to protect whales and other marine mammals from the various threats they face in today's oceans. By addressing issues such as ship strikes, entanglement, and noise pollution, the bill seeks to ensure the long-term survival of these majestic creatures.