Bill would block NSF from cutting ocean monitoring network funding
Passed one chamberS. 4822Latest action
Sponsor: Lisa Murkowski · Senator · AK
AIDecoded by AI · checked against the recordRead the official text
Official title: Saving the OOI Act of 2026
119th Congress
Topics: AI & technology
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
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S. 4822 halts NSF cuts to ocean monitoring equipment until a full review with public input is completed.
40-second read · 4 questions answered below
What does this do?
S. 4822 would stop NSF from using federal money to shut down or scale back Ocean Observatories Initiative equipment. It requires NSF to keep instruments fully running, restore monitoring in states where equipment was removed, and complete a detailed review with input from scientists and coastal communities before making changes.
Who does it affect?
Marine scientists, universities, and researchers studying climate, fisheries, and ocean health rely on this data. Coastal residents, fishing industries, and emergency planners in Oregon, Washington, Alaska, and North Carolina are also affected.
Why does it matter?
Gaps in ocean monitoring could reduce data available to researchers and coastal communities for weather, safety, and ecosystem tracking. The program's long-term funding remains uncertain pending the outcome of NSF's review.
AI-drafted summary. Check it against the official text before you act on it.
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Where does it stand?
- IntroducedJun 17, 2026
- Senate committee
- Senate vote
- HouseYou are here · Jun 18, 2026
- The president's desk
Right now: it passed the Senate, and the official record shows nothing new since. If the House changes it, it goes back to the Senate before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Held at the desk.