Bill renews ocean and coastal monitoring system through 2030

What does this do?

HR 2294 renews and updates a 2009 law supporting the U.S. Integrated Coastal and Ocean Observation System, which collects data on water temperature, currents, weather, and sea conditions. It renames the coordinating body from the "National Ocean Research Leadership Council" to the "Ocean Policy Committee" and updates related references. It also adds requirements for federal agencies to coordinate more closely with regional coastal monitoring programs and clarifies that the program should support actual measurement activities, not just research planning.

Who does it affect?

The bill mainly affects NOAA and other federal agencies running ocean and coastal monitoring programs, plus scientists, regional organizations, and local governments that rely on this data. It indirectly affects the public through weather forecasting, hurricane tracking, and fisheries management services.

Why does it matter?

The changes affect how ocean data is collected, coordinated, and shared between federal agencies and regional monitoring programs.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• $56 million per year
• Covers 2026 through 2030