Modernizing Access to Our Public Oceans Act
Public Oceans: Digital Maps for Boating and Fishing
Superseded
The companion bill in the other chamber is advancing instead.
→View advancing bill: Ocean Recreation: New Digital Maps for Fishing and BoatingLegislative Progress
Key Points
- The Commerce Department would be required to build a public website with digital maps showing exactly where people can boat, fish, and dive in federal waters. This aims to replace confusing records with easy-to-use digital tools for the public.
- The maps will include up-to-date information on fishing limits, seasonal closures, and safety alerts, such as areas with dangerous algae. Some of this information must be updated in real-time so boaters have the latest facts before they head out.
- The policy forces different government agencies to use the same data standards. This ensures that maps from the Coast Guard, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the military all work together and show the same boundaries.
- The website will also show the locations of marine sanctuaries and protected areas, explaining what activities are allowed in each spot. This helps people follow the law while enjoying outdoor recreation.
- To protect privacy and history, the maps will not reveal the locations of sensitive shipwrecks or private information from commercial fishing businesses. It also does not change any existing Tribal fishing rights or state laws.
- The government has about two and a half years to set the data standards and four years to make the full website available to the public.
Impact Analysis
Govbase has not yet run an impact analysis on this legislation.
Milestones
Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 438.
The bill is now on the schedule for the full chamber to consider. It's in line for debate and a vote.
Reported by the Committee on Natural Resources. H. Rept. 119-512.
The committee approved this bill and is sending it to the full chamber for a vote. This is a significant step — most bills never get this far.
Ordered to be Reported by Unanimous Consent.
The committee approved this bill and is sending it to the full chamber for a vote. This is a significant step — most bills never get this far.
Committee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held
Referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources.
Votes
No votes have been recorded for this legislation yet.
News
No related news coverage found for this legislation yet.
Source Information
Document Type
Congressional Bill
Official Title
Modernizing Access to Our Public Oceans Act
Data Sources
Sponsor
Cosponsors
(15)Analysis generated by AI. Always verify with official sources.