National Marine Sanctuaries Act Reauthorization
| The National Marine Sanctuaries Act (NMSA) is one of the most important pieces of federal legislation for protecting natural and cultural submerged resources in the ocean and Great Lakes. It is the only legislation that permanently sets aside such areas for protection and management. NMSA was last reauthorized in 2000 through 2005, so reauthorization is five years overdue and changes to the current law are needed to meet the growing needs and evolving challenges facing our nation’s ocean and Great Lakes resources today.
In the 110th Congress, the Subcommittee on Fisheries, Wildlife, and Oceans of the House Committee on Natural Resources held two oversight hearings on NMSA (November 3, 2007, June 18, 2008), and one legislative hearing (July 24, 2008) on a reauthorization bill introduced by Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo (H.R. 6537). |
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Testimony from members of NMSF Board of Trustees
- Robert Talbot, Board Chair: Oversight Hearing on November 3, 2007 and
Supplemental Response for Hearing Record - Leon Panetta, Former Trustee: Oversight Hearing on June 18, 2008
H.R. 6537: The Sanctuary Enhancement Act (SEA) of 2008
Support from President Obama
President Obama endorsed the importance of NMSA in regards to a larger ocean policy, during his candidacy. As part of the online Science Debate 2008, Obama was presented with the following question: “…What steps, if any, should the United States take during your presidency to protect ocean health?” In his response, he states that “…the National Marine Sanctuaries and the Oceans and Human Health Acts provide essential protection for ocean resources and support the research needed to implement a comprehensive ocean policy. These programs will be strengthened and reauthorized.” The Foundation will continue to work with this Administration to help ensure that reauthorization is made a priority now that Obama has been elected to office.
Current Status
Introduction of a reauthorization bill is pending in the 111th Congress. No Administration version is yet available.
