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To reauthorize the Integrated Coastal and Ocean Observation System Act of 2009.

3/17/2026, 8:05 AM

Summary of Bill HR 2294

Bill 119 HR 2294, also known as the Integrated Coastal and Ocean Observation System Act of 2009, is a piece of legislation that aims to reauthorize and strengthen the Integrated Coastal and Ocean Observation System (ICOOS) Act of 2009. The ICOOS Act was originally passed to establish a national system for monitoring and observing the coastal and oceanic environments of the United States.

The reauthorization of this act would ensure that the ICOOS continues to receive funding and support for its important work in collecting and disseminating data on coastal and oceanic conditions. This data is crucial for a variety of purposes, including monitoring water quality, predicting weather patterns, and supporting marine research and conservation efforts.

The bill includes provisions for improving coordination and collaboration among federal, state, and local agencies involved in coastal and ocean observation, as well as for enhancing public access to the data collected by the ICOOS. It also calls for the development of a strategic plan to guide the future direction of the ICOOS and ensure that it remains a valuable resource for policymakers, researchers, and the general public. Overall, Bill 119 HR 2294 represents a bipartisan effort to support and strengthen the ICOOS, recognizing the importance of monitoring and understanding our coastal and oceanic environments for the benefit of all Americans.

Congressional Summary of HR 2294

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. 

Current Status of Bill HR 2294

Bill HR 2294 is currently in the status of Passed in House since March 16, 2026. Bill HR 2294 was introduced during Congress 119 and was introduced to the House on March 24, 2025.  Bill HR 2294's most recent activity was Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection. as of March 16, 2026

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 2294

Total Number of Sponsors
1
Democrat Sponsors
0
Republican Sponsors
1
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
121
Democrat Cosponsors
85
Republican Cosponsors
36
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 2294

Primary Policy Focus

Public Lands and Natural Resources

Potential Impact Areas

- Advanced technology and technological innovations
- Advisory bodies
- Aquatic ecology
- Environmental assessment, monitoring, research
- Environmental technology
- Government information and archives
- Great Lakes
- Marine and coastal resources, fisheries

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 2294

To reauthorize the Integrated Coastal and Ocean Observation System Act of 2009.
To reauthorize the Integrated Coastal and Ocean Observation System Act of 2009.

Comments

Cooper Block profile image

Cooper Block

632

23 days ago

I think this bill is a good thing for our coastal and ocean observation system. It will help us better understand our environment and protect our natural resources. I believe this bill will have a positive impact in the long run.

Dana Barker profile image

Dana Barker

707

1 month ago

Not sure about this one.

Reina Medlin profile image

Reina Medlin

685

9 months ago

I don't really understand why this bill is necessary. Seems like a waste of time and money. I don't see how it's going to help anyone, especially me. #confused

Camilla Bland profile image

Camilla Bland

692

7 months ago

Ugh, this bill is such a waste of time. It's just gonna make things more complicated for everyone. Who even cares about this stuff anyway? #annoying #pointless #notforme

Ezra Hoover profile image

Ezra Hoover

629

11 months ago

I don't like this bill, it's bad for us. We need to stop it! #NoOn2294

Lana Allison profile image

Lana Allison

701

9 months ago

I don't care about this bill, but it sounds good for the environment. Hope it passes! #USA #politics

Emerson Kaufman profile image

Emerson Kaufman

629

1 month ago

I think this bill is really good for our oceans and coasts. It will help keep them safe and clean for all of us to enjoy. I'm glad they are working on this to make sure our environment stays healthy.