0
0

West Coast Ocean Protection Act of 2023

12/13/2023, 5:15 AM

Summary of Bill S 22

Bill 118 s 22, also known as the West Coast Ocean Protection Act of 2023, is a piece of legislation introduced in the US Congress with the aim of protecting the marine environment along the West Coast of the United States. The bill focuses on addressing various threats to the health of the ocean, including pollution, overfishing, and habitat destruction.

One of the key provisions of the bill is the establishment of marine protected areas along the West Coast, where certain activities such as fishing and drilling would be restricted in order to preserve the biodiversity of the region. The bill also includes measures to improve water quality and reduce pollution in the ocean, such as funding for research on the impacts of plastic pollution and other contaminants.

Additionally, the West Coast Ocean Protection Act of 2023 seeks to promote sustainable fishing practices and protect endangered species that rely on the ocean for their survival. The bill includes provisions for monitoring and enforcing regulations related to fishing quotas and habitat protection, as well as funding for conservation efforts aimed at preserving the marine ecosystem. Overall, the West Coast Ocean Protection Act of 2023 is a comprehensive piece of legislation that aims to safeguard the health of the ocean along the West Coast of the United States. By addressing key threats to the marine environment and promoting sustainable practices, the bill seeks to ensure the long-term health and viability of this important ecosystem.

Congressional Summary of S 22

West Coast Ocean Protection Act of 2023

This bill prohibits the Department of the Interior from issuing a lease for the exploration, development, or production of oil or natural gas in any area of the Outer Continental Shelf off the coast of California, Oregon, or Washington.

Current Status of Bill S 22

Bill S 22 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since January 23, 2023. Bill S 22 was introduced during Congress 118 and was introduced to the Senate on January 23, 2023.  Bill S 22's most recent activity was Read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. (Sponsor introductory remarks on measure: CR S56) as of January 23, 2023

Bipartisan Support of Bill S 22

Total Number of Sponsors
1
Democrat Sponsors
1
Republican Sponsors
0
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
22
Democrat Cosponsors
20
Republican Cosponsors
0
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
2

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill S 22

Primary Policy Focus

Energy

Potential Impact Areas

- California
- Marine and coastal resources, fisheries
- Oil and gas
- Oregon
- Pacific Ocean
- Washington State

Alternate Title(s) of Bill S 22

West Coast Ocean Protection Act of 2023
West Coast Ocean Protection Act of 2023
A bill to amend the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act to permanently prohibit the conduct of offshore drilling on the outer Continental Shelf off the coast of California, Oregon, and Washington.

Comments