[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 85 (Monday, May 17, 2021)]
[House]
[Pages H2378-H2385]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 COASTAL AND OCEAN ACIDIFICATION STRESSORS AND THREATS RESEARCH ACT OF 
                                  2021

  Ms. BONAMICI. Madam Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the 
bill (H.R. 1447) to amend the Federal Ocean Acidification Research and 
Monitoring Act of 2009 to establish an Ocean Acidification Advisory 
Board, to expand and improve the research on Ocean Acidification and 
Coastal Acidification, to establish and maintain a data archive system 
for Ocean Acidification data and Coastal Acidification data, and for 
other purposes, as amended.
  The Clerk read the title of the bill.
  The text of the bill is as follows:

                               H.R. 1447

       Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of 
     the United States of America in Congress assembled,

     SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.

       This Act may be cited as the ``Coastal and Ocean 
     Acidification Stressors and Threats Research Act of 2021'' or 
     the ``COAST Research Act of 2021''.

     SEC. 2. PURPOSES.

       (a) In General.--Section 12402(a) of the Federal Ocean 
     Acidification Research and Monitoring Act of 2009 (33 U.S.C. 
     3701(a)) is amended--
       (1) in paragraph (1)--
       (A) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking 
     ``development and coordination'' and inserting ``coordination 
     and implementation'';
       (B) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``acidification on 
     marine organisms'' and inserting ``acidification and coastal 
     acidification on marine organisms''; and
       (C) in subparagraph (B), by striking ``establish'' and all 
     that follows through the semicolon and inserting ``maintain 
     and advise an interagency research, monitoring, and public 
     outreach program on ocean acidification and coastal 
     acidification;'';
       (2) in paragraph (2), by striking ``establishment'' and 
     inserting ``maintenance'';
       (3) in paragraph (3), by inserting ``and coastal 
     acidification'' after ``ocean acidification''; and
       (4) in paragraph (4), by inserting ``and coastal 
     acidification that take into account other environmental and 
     anthropogenic stressors'' after ``ocean acidification''.
       (b) Technical and Conforming Amendment.--Section 12402 of 
     the Federal Ocean Acidification Research and Monitoring Act 
     of 2009 (33 U.S.C. 3701(a)) is amended by striking ``(a) 
     Purposes.--''.

     SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS.

       Section 12403 of the Federal Ocean Acidification Research 
     and Monitoring Act of 2009 (33 U.S.C. 3702) is amended--
       (1) in paragraph (1), by striking ``of the Earth's oceans'' 
     and all that follows before the period at the end and 
     inserting ``and changes in the water chemistry of the Earth's 
     oceans, coastal estuaries, and waterways caused by carbon 
     dioxide from the atmosphere and the breakdown of organic 
     matter'';
       (2) in paragraph (3), by striking ``Joint Subcommittee on 
     Ocean Science and Technology of the National Science and 
     Technology Council'' and inserting ``National Science and 
     Technology Council Subcommittee on Ocean Science and 
     Technology'';
       (3) by redesignating paragraphs (1), (2), and (3) as 
     paragraphs (2), (3), and (4), respectively;
       (4) by inserting before paragraph (2), as so redesignated, 
     the following new paragraph:
       ``(1) Coastal acidification.--The term `coastal 
     acidification' means the combined decrease in pH and changes 
     in the water chemistry of coastal oceans, estuaries, and 
     other bodies of water from chemical inputs (including carbon 
     dioxide from the atmosphere), freshwater inputs, and excess 
     nutrient run-off from land and coastal atmospheric pollution 
     that result in processes that release carbon dioxide, acidic 
     nitrogen, and sulfur compounds as byproducts which end up in 
     coastal waters.''; and
       (5) by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
       ``(5) State.--The term `State' means each State of the 
     United States, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of 
     Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Commonwealth of the 
     Northern Mariana Islands, the Virgin Islands of the United 
     States, and any other territory or possession of the United 
     States.''.

     SEC. 4. INTERAGENCY WORKING GROUP.

       Section 12404 of the Federal Ocean Acidification Research 
     and Monitoring Act of 2009 (33 U.S.C. 3703) is amended--
       (1) in the heading, by striking ``subcommittee'' and 
     inserting ``working group'';
       (2) in subsection (a)--
       (A) in paragraph (1), by striking ``Joint Subcommittee on 
     Ocean Science and Technology of the National Science and 
     Technology Council shall coordinate Federal activities on 
     ocean acidification and establish'' and insert ``Subcommittee 
     shall establish and maintain'';
       (B) in paragraph (2), by striking ``Wildlife Service,'' and 
     inserting ``Wildlife Service, the Bureau of Ocean Energy 
     Management, the Environmental Protection Agency, the 
     Department of Agriculture, the Department of State, the 
     Department of Energy, the Department of the Navy, the 
     National Park Service, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the 
     National Institute of Standards and Technology, the 
     Smithsonian Institution,''; and
       (C) in paragraph (3), in the heading, by striking 
     ``Chairman'' and inserting ``Chair'';
       (3) in subsection (b)--
       (A) in paragraph (1), by inserting ``, including the 
     efforts of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
     Administration to facilitate such implementation'' after ``of 
     the plan'';
       (B) in paragraph (2)--
       (i) in subparagraph (A), by inserting ``and coastal 
     acidification'' after ``ocean acidification''; and
       (ii) in subparagraph (B), by inserting ``and coastal 
     acidification'' after ``ocean acidification'';
       (C) in paragraph (4), by striking ``; and'' and inserting a 
     semicolon;
       (D) in paragraph (5)--
       (i) by striking ``developed'' and inserting ``and coastal 
     acidification developed''; and
       (ii) by striking the period at the end and inserting ``and 
     coastal acidification; and''; and
       (E) by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
       ``(6) ensure that each of the Federal agencies represented 
     on the interagency working group--
       ``(A) participates in the Ocean Acidification Information 
     Exchange established under paragraph (5); and
       ``(B) delivers data and information to support the data 
     archive system established under section 12406(d).'';
       (4) in subsection (c), in paragraph (2)--
       (A) by inserting ``, and to the Office of Management and 
     Budget,'' after ``House of Representatives''; and
       (B) in subparagraph (B), by striking ``the interagency 
     research'' and inserting ``interagency strategic research'';
       (5) by redesignating subsection (c) as subsection (d); and
       (6) by inserting after subsection (b) the following:
       ``(c) Advisory Board.--
       ``(1) Establishment.--The Chair of the Subcommittee shall 
     establish an Ocean Acidification Advisory Board.
       ``(2) Duties.--The Advisory Board shall--
       ``(A) not later than 180 days before the Subcommittee 
     submits the most recent report under subsection (d)(2)--
       ``(i) review such report;
       ``(ii) submit an analysis of such report to the 
     Subcommittee for consideration in the final report submitted 
     under subsection (d)(2); and
       ``(iii) concurrently with the Subcommittee's final 
     submission of the report under subsection (d)(2), the 
     Advisory Board shall submit a copy of the analysis provided 
     to the Subcommittee to the Committee on Commerce, Science, 
     and Transportation of the Senate, the Committee on Science, 
     Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives, and 
     the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of 
     Representatives;
       ``(B) not later than 180 days before the Subcommittee 
     submits the most recent strategic research plan under 
     subsection (d)(3) to Congress--
       ``(i) review such plan;
       ``(ii) submit an analysis of such plan and the 
     implementation thereof to the Subcommittee for consideration 
     in the final strategic research plan submitted under 
     subsection (d)(3); and
       ``(iii) concurrently with the Subcommittee's final 
     submission of the strategic research plan under subsection 
     (d)(3), the Advisory Board shall submit a copy of the 
     analysis provided to the Subcommittee to the Committee on 
     Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate, the 
     Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of 
     Representatives, and the Committee on Natural Resources of 
     the House of Representatives;

[[Page H2379]]

       ``(C) provide ongoing advice to the Subcommittee and the 
     interagency working group on matters related to Federal 
     activities on ocean acidification and coastal acidification;
       ``(D) advise the Subcommittee and the interagency working 
     group on--
       ``(i) efforts to coordinate research and monitoring 
     activities related to ocean acidification and coastal 
     acidification; and
       ``(ii) the best practices for the standards developed for 
     data archiving under section 12406(e);
       ``(E) publish in the Federal Register a charter;
       ``(F) provide the Library of Congress with--
       ``(i) the charter described in subparagraph (E);
       ``(ii) any schedules and minutes for meetings of the 
     Advisory Board;
       ``(iii) any documents that are approved by the Advisory 
     Board; and
       ``(iv) any reports and analysis prepared by the Advisory 
     Board; and
       ``(G) establish a publicly accessible web page on the 
     website of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
     Administration, that contains the information described in 
     clauses (i) through (iv) of subparagraph (F).
       ``(3) Membership.--The Advisory Board shall consist of 24 
     members as follows:
       ``(A) Two representatives of the shellfish and crab 
     industry.
       ``(B) One representative of the finfish industry.
       ``(C) One representative of seafood processors.
       ``(D) Three representatives from academia, including both 
     natural and social sciences.
       ``(E) One representative of recreational fishing.
       ``(F) One representative of a relevant nongovernmental 
     organization.
       ``(G) Six representatives from relevant State, local, and 
     Tribal governments.
       ``(H) One representative from the Alaska Ocean 
     Acidification Network or a subsequent entity that represents 
     the same geographical region and has a similar purpose.
       ``(I) One representative from the California Current 
     Acidification Network or a subsequent entity that represents 
     the same geographical region and has a similar purpose.
       ``(J) One representative from the Northeast Coastal 
     Acidification Network or a subsequent entity that represents 
     the same geographical region and has a similar purpose.
       ``(K) One representative from the Southeast Coastal 
     Acidification Network or a subsequent entity that represents 
     the same geographical region and has a similar purpose.
       ``(L) One representative from the Gulf of Mexico Coastal 
     Acidification Network or a subsequent entity that represents 
     the same geographical region and has a similar purpose.
       ``(M) One representative from the Mid-Atlantic Coastal 
     Acidification Network or a subsequent entity that represents 
     the same geographical region and has a similar purpose.
       ``(N) One representative from the Pacific Islands Ocean 
     Observing System or a subsequent entity that represents the 
     island territories and possessions of the United States in 
     the Pacific Ocean, and the State of Hawaii and has a similar 
     purpose.
       ``(O) One representative from the Caribbean Regional 
     Association for Coastal Ocean Observing or a subsequent 
     entity that represents Puerto Rico and the United States 
     Virgin Islands and has a similar purpose.
       ``(P) One representative from the National Oceanic and 
     Atmospheric Administration shall serve as an ex-officio 
     member of the Advisory Board without a vote.
       ``(4) Appointment of members.--The Chair of the 
     Subcommittee shall--
       ``(A) appoint members to the Advisory Board (taking into 
     account the geographical interests of each individual to be 
     appointed as a member of the Advisory Board to ensure that an 
     appropriate balance of geographical interests are represented 
     by the members of the Advisory Board) who--
       ``(i) represent the interest group for which each seat is 
     designated;
       ``(ii) demonstrate expertise on ocean acidification or 
     coastal acidification and its scientific, economic, industry, 
     cultural, and community impacts; and
       ``(iii) have a record of distinguished service with respect 
     to ocean acidification or coastal acidification, and such 
     impacts;
       ``(B) give consideration to nominations and recommendations 
     from the members of the interagency working group and the 
     public for such appointments; and
       ``(C) ensure that an appropriate balance of scientific, 
     industry, and geographical interests are represented by the 
     members of the Advisory Board.
       ``(5) Term of membership.--Each member of the Advisory 
     Board--
       ``(A) shall be appointed for a 5-year term; and
       ``(B) may be appointed to more than one term.
       ``(6) Chair.--The Chair of the Subcommittee shall appoint 
     one member of the Advisory Board to serve as the Chair of the 
     Advisory Board.
       ``(7) Meetings.--Not less than once each calendar year, the 
     Advisory Board shall meet at such times and places as may be 
     designated by the Chair of the Advisory Board, in 
     consultation with the Chair of the Subcommittee and the Chair 
     of the interagency working group.
       ``(8) Briefing.--The Chair of the Advisory Board shall 
     brief the Subcommittee and the interagency working group on 
     the progress of the Advisory Board as necessary or at the 
     request of the Subcommittee.
       ``(9) Federal advisory committee act.--Section 14 of the 
     Federal Advisory Committee Act shall not apply to the 
     Advisory Board.''.

     SEC. 5. STRATEGIC RESEARCH PLAN.

       Section 12405 of the Federal Ocean Acidification Research 
     and Monitoring Act of 2009 (33 U.S.C. 3704) is amended--
       (1) in subsection (a)--
       (A) by striking ``acidification'' each place it appears and 
     inserting ``acidification and coastal acidification'';
       (B) in the first sentence--
       (i) by inserting ``, and not later than every 5 years 
     thereafter'' after ``the date of enactment of this Act'';
       (ii) by inserting ``address the socioeconomic impacts of 
     ocean acidification and coastal acidification and to'' after 
     ``mitigation strategies to''; and
       (iii) by striking ``marine ecosystems'' each place it 
     appears and inserting ``ecosystems''; and
       (C) in the second sentence, by inserting ``and 
     recommendations made by the Advisory Board in the review of 
     the plan required under section 12404(c)(2)(B)(i)'' after 
     ``subsection (d)'';
       (2) in subsection (b)--
       (A) in paragraph (1), by inserting ``and social sciences'' 
     after ``among the ocean sciences'';
       (B) in paragraph (2)--
       (i) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``impacts'' and 
     inserting ``impacts, including trends of changes in ocean 
     chemistry,'';
       (ii) in subparagraph (B)--

       (I) by striking ``improve the ability to assess the'' and 
     inserting ``assess the short-term and long-term''; and
       (II) by striking ``; and'' at the end and inserting a 
     semicolon;

       (iii) by amending subparagraph (C) to read as follows:
       ``(C) provide information for the--
       ``(i) development of adaptation and mitigation strategies 
     to address the socioeconomic impacts of ocean acidification 
     and coastal acidification;
       ``(ii) conservation of marine organisms and ecosystems;
       ``(iii) assessment of the effectiveness of such adaptation 
     and mitigation strategies; and''; and
       (iv) by adding at the end the following new subparagraph:
       ``(D) improve research on--
       ``(i) ocean acidification and coastal acidification;
       ``(ii) the interactions between and effects of multiple 
     combined stressors including changes in water chemistry, 
     changes in sediment delivery, hypoxia, and harmful algal 
     blooms, on ocean acidification and coastal acidification; and
       ``(iii) the effect of environmental stressors on marine 
     resources and ecosystems;'';
       (C) in paragraph (3)--
       (i) in subparagraph (F), by striking ``database 
     development'' and inserting ``data management'';
       (ii) in subparagraph (H) by striking ``and'' at the end; 
     and
       (iii) by adding at the end the following new subparagraphs:
       ``(J) assessment of adaptation and mitigation strategies; 
     and
       ``(K) education and outreach activities;'';
       (D) in paragraph (4), by striking ``set forth'' and 
     inserting ``ensure an appropriate balance of contribution in 
     establishing'';
       (E) in paragraph (5), by striking ``reports'' and inserting 
     ``the best available peer-reviewed scientific reports'';
       (F) in paragraph (6)--
       (i) by inserting ``and coastal acidification'' after 
     ``ocean acidification''; and
       (ii) by striking ``of the United States'' and inserting 
     ``within the United States'';
       (G) in paragraph (7), by striking ``outline budget 
     requirements'' and inserting ``estimate costs associated for 
     full implementation of each element of the plan by fiscal 
     year'';
       (H) in paragraph (8)--
       (i) by inserting ``and coastal acidification'' after 
     ``ocean acidification'' each place it appears;
       (ii) by striking ``its'' and inserting ``their''; and
       (iii) by striking ``; and'' at the end and inserting a 
     semicolon;
       (I) in paragraph (9), by striking the period at the end and 
     inserting ``; and''; and
       (J) by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
       ``(11) describe monitoring needs necessary to support 
     potentially affected industry members, coastal stakeholders, 
     fishery management councils and commissions, non-Federal 
     resource managers, and scientific experts on decision-making 
     and adaptation related to ocean acidification and coastal 
     acidification.'';
       (3) in subsection (c)--
       (A) in paragraph (1)(C), by striking ``surface'';
       (B) in paragraph (2), by inserting ``and coastal 
     acidification'' after ``ocean acidification'' each place it 
     appears;
       (C) in paragraph (3)--
       (i) by striking ``input, and'' and inserting ``inputs,'';
       (ii) by inserting ``, marine food webs,'' after ``marine 
     ecosystems''; and
       (iii) by inserting ``, and modeling that supports fisheries 
     management'' after ``marine organisms'';

[[Page H2380]]

       (D) in paragraph (5), by inserting ``and coastal 
     acidification'' after ``ocean acidification''; and
       (E) by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
       ``(8) Research to understand related and cumulative 
     stressors and other biogeochemical processes occurring in 
     conjunction with ocean acidification and coastal 
     acidification.''; and
       (4) by striking subsection (e) and inserting the following:
       ``(e) Advisory Board Evaluation.--Not later than 180 days 
     before a plan is submitted to Congress, the Subcommittee 
     shall provide the Advisory Board established under section 
     12404(c) a copy of the plan for purposes of review under 
     paragraph (2)(B)(i) of such section.
       ``(f) Publication and Public Comment.--Not later than 90 
     days before the strategic research plan, or any revision 
     thereof, is submitted to Congress, the Subcommittee shall 
     publish the plan in the Federal Register and provide an 
     opportunity for submission of public comments for a period of 
     not less than 60 days.''.

     SEC. 6. NOAA OCEAN ACIDIFICATION ACTIVITIES.

       Section 12406 of the Federal Ocean Acidification Research 
     and Monitoring Act of 2009 (33 U.S.C. 3705) is amended--
       (1) in subsection (a)--
       (A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by inserting 
     ``coordination,'' after ``research, monitoring,'';
       (B) in paragraph (1)--
       (i) in subparagraph (B)--

       (I) by inserting ``including the Integrated Ocean Observing 
     System and the ocean observing assets of other Federal, 
     State, and Tribal agencies,'' after ``ocean observing 
     assets,''; and
       (II) by inserting ``and agency and department missions, 
     prioritizing the location of monitoring instruments, assets, 
     and projects to maximize the efficiency of resources and to 
     optimize understanding of socioeconomic impacts and ecosystem 
     health'' after ``research program'';

       (ii) in subparagraph (C)--

       (I) by striking ``adaptation'' and inserting ``adaptation 
     and mitigation''; and
       (II) by inserting ``and supporting socioeconomically 
     vulnerable States, local governments, Tribes, communities, 
     and industries through technical assistance and mitigation 
     strategies'' after ``marine ecosystems'';

       (iii) in subparagraph (E), by striking ``its impacts'' and 
     inserting ``their respective impacts'';
       (iv) in subparagraph (F), by striking ``monitoring and 
     impacts research'' and inserting ``research, monitoring, and 
     adaptation and mitigation strategies''; and
       (v) by adding at the end the following new subparagraph:
       ``(G) research to improve understanding of the effect of--
       ``(i) other environmental stressors on ocean acidification 
     and coastal acidification;
       ``(ii) multiple environmental stressors on living marine 
     resources and coastal ecosystems; and
       ``(iii) adaptation and mitigation strategies to address the 
     socioeconomic impacts of ocean acidification and coastal 
     acidification.'';
       (C) in paragraph (2), by striking ``critical research 
     projects that explore'' and inserting ``critical research, 
     education, and outreach projects that explore and 
     communicate''; and
       (D) in paragraphs (1) and (2), by striking 
     ``acidification'' each place it appears and inserting 
     ``acidification and coastal acidification''; and
       (2) by adding at the end the following new subsections:
       ``(c) Relationship to Interagency Working Group.--The 
     National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration shall serve 
     as the lead Federal agency responsible for coordinating the 
     Federal response to ocean acidification and coastal 
     acidification, by--
       ``(1) leading the interagency working group in implementing 
     the strategic research plan under section 12405;
       ``(2) coordinating monitoring and research efforts among 
     Federal agencies in cooperation with State, local, and Tribal 
     government and international partners;
       ``(3) maintaining an Ocean Acidification Information 
     Exchange described under section 12404(b)(5) to allow for 
     information to be electronically accessible, including 
     information--
       ``(A) on ocean acidification developed through or used by 
     the ocean acidification program described under section 
     12406(a); or
       ``(B) that would be useful to State governments, local 
     governments, Tribal governments, resource managers, 
     policymakers, researchers, and other stakeholders in 
     mitigating or adapting to the impacts of ocean acidification 
     and coastal acidification; and
       ``(4) establishing and maintaining the data archive system 
     under subsection (d).
       ``(d) Data Archive System.--
       ``(1) Management.--The Secretary, in coordination with 
     members of the interagency working group, shall provide for 
     the long-term stewardship of, and access to, data relating to 
     ocean acidification and coastal acidification by establishing 
     and maintaining a data archive system that the National 
     Center for Environmental Information uses to process, store, 
     archive, provide access to, and incorporate to the extent 
     possible, such data collected--
       ``(A) through relevant federally-funded research; and
       ``(B) by a Federal agency, State agency, local agency, 
     Tribe, academic scientist, citizen scientist, or industry 
     organization.
       ``(2) Existing global or national data assets.--In 
     establishing and maintaining the data archive system under 
     paragraph (1), the Secretary shall ensure that existing 
     global or national data assets (including the data assets 
     maintained by the National Centers for Environmental 
     Information, the Integrated Ocean Observing System, and other 
     existing data systems within Federal agencies) are 
     incorporated to the greatest extent possible.
       ``(e) Standards, Protocols, and Procedures.--With respect 
     to the data described in subsection (d), the Secretary, in 
     coordination with members of the interagency working group, 
     shall establish and revise as necessary the standards, 
     protocols, or procedures for--
       ``(1) processing, storing, archiving, and providing access 
     to such data;
       ``(2) the interoperability and intercalibration of such 
     data;
       ``(3) the collection of any metadata underlying such data; 
     and
       ``(4) sharing such data with State, local, and Tribal 
     government programs, potentially affected industry members, 
     coastal stakeholders, fishery management councils and 
     commissions, non-Federal resource managers, and academia.
       ``(f) Dissemination of Ocean Acidification Data and Coastal 
     Acidification Data.--The Secretary, in coordination with 
     members of the interagency working group, shall disseminate 
     the data described under subsection (d) to the greatest 
     extent practicable by sharing such data on full and open 
     access exchanges.
       ``(g) Requirement.--Recipients of grants from the National 
     Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration under this subtitle 
     that collect data described under subsection (d) shall--
       ``(1) collect such data in accordance with the standards, 
     protocols, or procedures established pursuant to subsection 
     (e); and
       ``(2) submit such data to the data archive system under 
     subsection (d) after publication, in accordance with any 
     rules promulgated by the Secretary.''.

     SEC. 7. NSF OCEAN ACIDIFICATION ACTIVITIES.

       Section 12407 of the Federal Ocean Acidification Research 
     and Monitoring Act of 2009 (33 U.S.C. 3706) is amended--
       (1) by striking ``ocean acidification'' each place it 
     appears and inserting ``ocean acidification and coastal 
     acidification'';
       (2) in subsection (a)--
       (A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking 
     ``its impacts'' and inserting ``their respective impacts'';
       (B) in paragraph (3), by striking ``and its impacts'' and 
     inserting ``and their respective impacts'';
       (C) in paragraph (4), by striking the period at the end and 
     inserting ``; and''; and
       (D) by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
       ``(5) adaptation and mitigation strategies to address 
     socioeconomic effects of ocean acidification and coastal 
     acidification.''; and
       (3) by adding at the end the following:
       ``(d) Requirement.--Recipients of grants from the National 
     Science Foundation under this subtitle that collect data 
     described under section 12406(d) shall--
       ``(1) collect data in accordance with the standards, 
     protocols, or procedures established pursuant to section 
     12406(e); and
       ``(2) submit such data to the Director and the Secretary 
     after publication, in accordance with any rules promulgated 
     by the Director or the Secretary.''.

     SEC. 8. NASA OCEAN ACIDIFICATION ACTIVITIES.

       Section 12408 of the Federal Ocean Acidification Research 
     and Monitoring Act of 2009 (33 U.S.C. 3707) is amended--
       (1) by striking ``ocean acidification'' each place it 
     appears and inserting ``ocean acidification and coastal 
     acidification'';
       (2) in subsection (a), by striking ``its impacts'' and 
     inserting ``their respective impacts''; and
       (3) by adding at the end the following new subsection:
       ``(d) Requirement.--Researchers from the National 
     Aeronautics and Space Administration under this subtitle that 
     collect data described under section 12406(d) shall--
       ``(1) collect such data in accordance with the standards, 
     protocols, or procedures established pursuant to section 
     12406(e); and
       ``(2) submit such data to the Administrator and the 
     Secretary, in accordance with any rules promulgated by the 
     Administrator or the Secretary.''.

     SEC. 9. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.

       Section 12409 of the Federal Ocean Acidification Research 
     and Monitoring Act of 2009 (33 U.S.C. 3708) is amended--
       (1) in subsection (a), by striking ``subtitle--'' and all 
     that follows through paragraph (4) and inserting the 
     following: ``subtitle--
       ``(1) $30,500,000 for fiscal year 2022;
       ``(2) $35,000,000 for fiscal year 2023;
       ``(3) $40,000,000 for fiscal year 2024;
       ``(4) $45,000,000 for fiscal year 2025; and
       ``(5) $50,000,000 for fiscal year 2026.''; and
       (2) in subsection (b), by striking ``subtitle--'' and all 
     that follows through paragraph (4) and inserting the 
     following: ``subtitle $20,000,000 for each of the fiscal 
     years 2022 through 2026.''.

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to the rule, the gentlewoman from

[[Page H2381]]

Oregon (Ms. Bonamici) and the gentleman from Oklahoma (Mr. Lucas) each 
will control 20 minutes.
  The Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from Oregon.


                             General Leave

  Ms. BONAMICI. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members 
may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks 
and include extraneous material on H.R. 1447, the bill now under 
consideration.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there objection to the request of the 
gentlewoman from Oregon?
  There was no objection.
  Ms. BONAMICI. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may 
consume.
  I rise today in support of the Coastal and Ocean Acidification 
Stressors and Threats, or COAST, Research Act, my bipartisan bill to 
help coastal communities adapt to the climate crisis by expanding 
scientific research, monitoring, and adaptation of ocean and coastal 
acidification.
  I want to thank all of the staff on both sides of the aisle, from the 
committee and my personal staff, especially Maxine Sugarman, for all 
their work on this bill.
  Every person on this planet benefits from a healthy ocean. The ocean 
covers more than 70 percent of the planet's surface. It supplies much 
of the oxygen that we breathe and regulates our climate. It is linked 
to the water we drink, and it is home to more than half of all life on 
the planet. The power of its waves generates clean energy. The ocean 
drives our economy, feeds, employs, and transports us. But despite our 
intrinsic connection, for too long the ocean has taken the heat for us.
  According to the Fourth National Climate Assessment, atmospheric 
carbon dioxide concentrations are now higher than at any time in the 
last 3 million years. Approximately one-third of the carbon dioxide in 
the atmosphere dissolves into our ocean and estuaries, causing them to 
become more acidic.
  Ocean and coastal acidification make it difficult for shellfish, 
coral, and other marine organisms to build their shells and skeletal 
structures. Some finfish, including endangered salmon in the Pacific 
Northwest, lose their sense of smell necessary for identifying prey, 
reproducing, and navigating their habitats. Our understanding of the 
long-term consequences of ocean acidification is still limited, but we 
do know that the changes in ocean chemistry are already affecting the 
fishers and shellfish farmers who depend on the ocean's resources to 
support themselves and their families and the Tribes that have treaty 
rights and deep cultural and historical connections to diminishing 
species.
  The most effective strategy for mitigating ocean acidification is 
reducing anthropogenic sources of carbon dioxide pollution worldwide. I 
have joined with colleagues on the Select Committee on the Climate 
Crisis in releasing a bold, comprehensive, and science-based Climate 
Action Plan to reach net-zero emissions no later than mid-century and 
net-negative thereafter. But there are also actions that we can take 
immediately to improve conditions, lessen exposure to ocean 
acidification, and manage local pollution and conditions that can 
exacerbate acidification.
  This bill, which I introduced with my fellow co-chair of the House 
Oceans Caucus, Representative Young from Alaska, and with 
Representatives Pingree and Posey, would improve scientific research on 
ocean and coastal acidification in the context of other environmental 
stressors and direct Federal agencies to assess adaptation and 
mitigation strategies. Funding has lagged behind the needs of the 
scientific community for years, and this bill would provide a modest, 
but important, increase for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration and the National Science Foundation to scale up research 
efforts. Importantly, the bill also expands the definition of ocean 
acidification to include estuaries and recognize mechanisms that cause 
changes in coastal chemistry.
  NOAA is already leading interdisciplinary efforts to expand our 
understanding of changing ocean conditions in its role as chair of the 
Interagency Working Group on Ocean Acidification. In fact, this year 
marks the 10th anniversary of the NOAA Ocean Acidification Program, and 
I hope my colleagues will join me in applauding their work to truly 
advance regionally coordinated scientific research.
  A September 2015 Government Accountability Office report suggested 
that an independent national ocean acidification program could advance 
our understanding of changing ocean conditions. The COAST Research Act 
designates NOAA as the lead Federal agency responsible for implementing 
the Federal response to ocean and coastal acidification, further 
empowering the Ocean Acidification Program to scale up its efforts with 
its first reauthorization in more than a decade.
  Additionally, the COAST Research Act increases our understanding of 
the socioeconomic effects of ocean and coastal acidification and, 
importantly, it engages stakeholders. The bill creates an advisory 
board of representatives of the shellfish and crab industry, finfish 
industry, seafood processors, recreational fishing, academia, 
nongovernmental organizations, State, local, and Tribal governments, 
and regional coastal acidification networks. The regionally balanced 
board will advise NOAA and the Interagency Working Group on coastal and 
ocean acidification research and monitoring activities. This 
collaborative process will help make sure that vulnerable and affected 
communities, industries, and coastal and ocean managers have the tools 
they need to adapt and mitigate the effects of coastal and ocean 
acidification.
  For example, at Oregon State University, Dr. Burke Hales developed 
the ``Burke-o-Lator,'' a device the size of a piece of carry-on 
luggage, that can analyze when shellfish growers across the Pacific 
Northwest should grow larvae based on the ocean acidity and the effects 
on calcium carbonates needed for shell formation. Other research at 
Oregon State has demonstrated how growing particular seagrasses and 
kelps can help counteract ocean acidification. These examples help 
demonstrate what is possible when we invest in science and research to 
help coastal communities adapt to the climate crisis.

  The COAST Research Act directs NOAA to maintain a system to process, 
store, archive, and provide access to data on ocean and coastal 
acidification from federally funded research, including existing global 
or national datasets, and research from State and local agencies, 
Tribes, academic scientists, citizen scientists, and industry 
organizations. These efforts will help provide for the long-term 
stewardship and standardization of ocean acidification data and better 
help communities adapt and mitigate the worst effects.
  Madam Speaker, the health of our ocean reflects the health of our 
planet. Today, we have the opportunity to help it become more resilient 
by passing the bipartisan COAST Research Act.
  I thank Chairwoman Johnson and Ranking Member Lucas and my co-
sponsors for their leadership. I urge my colleagues to support the 
bill.
  I reference letters from Earthjustice, Ocean Conservancy, Wild Salmon 
Center, Pacific Coast Shellfish Growers Association, Integrated Ocean 
Observing System Association, Surfrider Foundation, Oregon Coordinating 
Council on Ocean Acidification and Hypoxia, Consortium for Ocean 
Leadership, Oregon State University, Northwest Association of Networked 
Ocean Observing Systems, and Pacific States Marine Fisheries 
Commission, in support of the COAST Research Act.
  Madam Speaker, I include in the Record several of the above-
referenced letters.

                                      Oregon State University,

                              Corvallis, Oregon, 10 February 2021.
     Re The Coastal and Ocean Acidification Stressors and Threats 
         (COAST) Research Act.

     Hon. Suzanne Bonamici,
     House of Representatives.
     Washington, DC.
       Dear Representative Bonamici: We write to offer Oregon 
     State University's support for The Coastal and Ocean 
     Acidification Stressors and Threats (COAST) Research Act.
       As marine habitats face new and daunting pressures 
     threatening their sustainability, the COAST Research Act 
     identifies the growing need for strategic and robust 
     investments in ocean acidification (OA) research, monitoring 
     and stakeholder collaboration.
       Oregon State University is committed to interdisciplinary 
     approaches to address the national and global challenges 
     facing our

[[Page H2382]]

     oceans and coast communities. OSU has a deep history of 
     global leadership in oceanography and engages in nationally 
     ranked oceanographic monitoring programs and world-leading OA 
     research. Further, the university recognizes that Oregon's 
     estuaries and coastal regions are home to some of the world's 
     most productive ecosystems and economically vital shellfish 
     farms.
       The university is encouraged that the COAST Research Act 
     expands the definition of OA to include coastal and estuarine 
     systems, and identifies OA as being affected by a combination 
     of factors, including hypoxia. The university believes that 
     by expanding federal definitions of OA and by increasing 
     funding opportunities, researchers and managers will be able 
     to best utilize resources to find solutions to address OA.
       The university also is encouraged that this legislation 
     recognizes the need for federal engagement to continue 
     important investments to understand and address ocean and 
     coastal acidification. Doing so will enhance the integration 
     of OA research, monitoring and adaptation strategies across 
     principal federal research agencies, including the National 
     Science Foundation, National Oceanographic and Atmospheric 
     Administration, and the National Aeronautics and Space 
     Administration.
       Oregon State University understands that effective and 
     collaborative partnerships and communication are essential 
     for our state and nation to find adaptive and mitigation 
     solutions to address OA. For example, the proposal to 
     establish an Ocean Acidification Advisory Board will be 
     essential for facilitating the important work still to be 
     done.
       The world's ocean belongs to everyone, and ocean health is 
     critical to our future. In the coming decades, it will be 
     essential for the nation and its universities to work 
     collaboratively to improve and sustain the health of our 
     oceans. Doing so, we will assure human wellness, 
     environmental health and economic prosperity for future 
     generations.
       In closing, Oregon State University believes that the COAST 
     Research Act proposes important new strategic tools to expand 
     understanding and address the problems facing our oceans and 
     coastal communities.
           Sincerely,
     Edward Feser, Ph.D.,
       Provost and Executive Vice President.
     Irem Tumer, Ph.D., ASME Fellow,
       Vice President for Research.
                                  ____

                                             Pacific States Marine


                                         Fisheries Commission,

                                   Portland, OR, February 9, 2021.
     Hon. Suzanne Bonamici,
     Washington, DC.
       Dear Representative Bonamici: On behalf of the Pacific 
     States Marine Fisheries Commission, I am writing in support 
     of the Coastal and Ocean Acidification Stressors and Threats 
     (COAST) Research Act.
       The COAST Act would dedicate greater resources and focus on 
     the issue of ocean acidification. The legislation increases 
     Federal research, planning, interagency coordination, data 
     collection, stakeholder input, and socioeconomic study into 
     this growing and vexing problem impacting our marine 
     fisheries and wildlife. The Commission appreciates the 
     thoughtful and bipartisan approach you and Representatives 
     Young, Pingree and Posey have taken in developing the bill.
       The Commission's membership includes the State fisheries 
     and wildlife agencies of five West Coast states, including 
     Alaska, California, Idaho, Oregon and Washington. Our coastal 
     members have seen the firsthand impact of ocean acidification 
     with early research showing a detrimental effect on shell 
     formation in our crab and shellfish species. Over time, these 
     chemical changes to shell composition could be devastating to 
     our valuable Dungeness crab fishery and inshore shellfish 
     aquaculture operators. There is much more that needs to be 
     learned about the effect of ocean acidification on these and 
     other marine species so that appropriate public policy 
     measures and solutions can be pursued at both the Federal and 
     state levels.
       Ocean acidification is one side effect of other changes in 
     ocean temperatures and conditions that have been harmful 
     along the West Coast. Regional temperature oscillation during 
     the El Nino/La Nina cycles has increased dramatically in 
     recent years. Average sea surface temperatures have increased 
     by as much as 7 degrees in some years resulting to many 
     unfortunate effects to fisheries and marine mammals, 
     including harmful algal blooms leading to Dungeness crab 
     season closures; low salmon returns due to reduced ocean 
     survivability of juvenile fish; shifts in whale migration 
     patterns causing greater entanglement in fishing gear and 
     shipping vessel strikes; and sea lion stranding and die-offs 
     from consumption of crab and shellfish poisoned by domoic 
     acid.
       Thank you for your leadership in reintroducing the COAST 
     Act. The Commission stands ready to assist and serve as a 
     resource for you and your staff as the bill moves through the 
     legislative process.
           Sincerely,
                                                     Randy Fisher,
     Executive Director.
                                  ____

         PCSGA, Pacific Coast Shellfish Growers Association,
                                                   March 18, 2021.
     Hon. Suzanne Bonamici,
     House of Representatives,
     Washington, DC.
       Dear Representative Bonamici: On behalf of the members of 
     Pacific Coast Shellfish Growers Association (PCSGA), I am 
     submitting this letter of support for the Coastal and Ocean 
     Acidification Stressors and Threats (COAST) Research Act of 
     2019. Shellfish growers were the first community to call 
     attention to the problems associated with ocean acidification 
     when, in 2007, they experienced severe oyster larvae 
     mortality in two out of three major west coast shellfish 
     hatcheries. Since then, PCSGA has engaged in several local, 
     state, and federal efforts and initiatives to ensure a future 
     for this historic industry.
       Shellfish farming on the west coast began in the late 
     1800's, fueled the California Gold Rush and was the reason 
     for the development of many coastal towns. Today, PCSGA, 
     proudly represents 120 shellfish farms in Alaska, Washington, 
     Oregon, California and Hawaii which farm mussels, clams, 
     oysters and geoduck. Our members not only produce 
     sustainable, healthy, food, but also provide significant 
     ecosystem services such aquatic habitat and water filtration, 
     and support thousands of family-wage jobs within rural 
     coastal communities.
       For nearly a decade, the shellfish industry has benefited 
     from NOAA's Ocean Acidification Program and the Integrated 
     Ocean Observing System (IOOS), both of which relate to the 
     Federal Ocean Acidification Research and Monitoring (FOARAM) 
     Act of 2009. These programs and the directives within FOARAM 
     have influenced the way shellfish growers operate their farms 
     among the uncertainty of changing ocean conditions. 
     Historically, growers only consulting their tide charts. Now, 
     growers rely upon a variety of real-time data and tools to 
     understand the ocean changes and adapt methods and practices 
     which allow them to continue farming in a productive and 
     profitable manner. There much work ahead of us and much yet 
     to learn. COAST Research Act provides an essential pathway 
     forward.
       We are excited by the intent of COAST Research Act, the 
     opportunities it provides and that it's been included as part 
     of the Climate Action Plan. We see how COAST will further 
     investments in ocean and coastal acidification research and 
     monitoring, assist shellfish community with much needed 
     adaptation strategies and coordinate work with stakeholders. 
     Simply put, COAST is a logical and necessary follow-up to 
     FOARAM and allows us to continue asking questions and seek 
     innovative approaches to mitigate the impacts related to 
     ocean acidification.
       Thank you very much for your leadership on this and for 
     your commitment to ensuring the long-term health of our 
     coastal and marine areas upon which shellfish growers depend.
           Respectfully,
                                               Margaret A. Pilaro,
     Executive Director.
                                  ____

         The Oregon Coordinating Council on Ocean Acidification 
           and Hypoxia,
                                              February 12th, 2021.
     Re Coastal and Ocean Acidification Stressors and Threats 
         (COAST) Research Act.

     Hon. Suzanne Bonamici,
     Washington, DC.
       As the Co-Chairs of the State legislatively mandated, 
     Oregon Coordinating Council on Ocean Acidification and 
     Hypoxia (or ``Oregon OAH Council''), we appreciate the 
     opportunity to provide you with a letter of strong support 
     for the Coastal and Ocean Acidification Stressors and Threats 
     (COAST) Research Act. Addressing intensifying ocean 
     acidification (OA) conditions here in Oregon, as well as 
     across the United States, is critical to our Nation's 
     understanding of larger impacts from CO2 
     emissions.
       Oregon is among the first places in the world to observe 
     direct impacts of ocean acidification and hypoxia (OAH), due 
     to our unique geographic and oceanographic context, putting 
     our fragile marine ecosystem at risk. Our coastal economies 
     rely on our vibrant marine ecosystem. Our nearshore waters 
     are home to sport and commercial fisheries, all of the 
     State's mariculture operations, and contain critical nursery 
     grounds for economically important species including 
     rockfish, oysters, salmon, pink shrimp, and Dungeness crab. 
     Oregon is not alone in experiencing the impacts from OA or 
     hypoxia. Through actions such as those in the COAST Research 
     Act we must act together as Americans to develop solutions 
     for our coastal communities, economies, and ecosystems to 
     prepare for future conditions.
       In the coming years, the Oregon OAH Council will continue 
     to take a collaborative, science-based approach to developing 
     recommendations to address OAH in our state and beyond. 
     Through further investments and initiatives, Oregon and the 
     United States will benefit from adaptation and mitigation 
     measures and will model to the world how to develop 
     actionable solutions for OA adaptation and mitigation.
       Oregon has identified three urgently needed strategic 
     actions, which directly align with objectives within the 
     COAST Research Act.
       (1) Monitoring of key oceanographic and biological 
     indicators of impacts from OAH.
       At the same time that OA has been impacting our coasts, 
     oxygen-depletion is on the rise; Oregon and much of the West 
     coast has seen several seasons in a row with extended periods 
     of hypoxia in our coastal

[[Page H2383]]

     waters. The Oregon OAH Council is encouraged that the COAST 
     Research Act identifies the need to strengthen investments in 
     OA research and monitoring in the context of other 
     environmental stressors. Ocean acidification and hypoxia are 
     compounding stressors for a wide range of marine animals, and 
     as such must continue to be studied together. Through the 
     COAST Research Acts reauthorization of funding of NOAA, NSF, 
     and NASA, much needed resources will be made available to 
     researchers across the United States to continue to expand 
     our knowledge of OAH. The Oregon OAH Council also supports 
     the initiative of the COAST Research Act to create data 
     processing, storage, and archive facilities to provide for 
     the long-term stewardship and standardization of data. By 
     creating a central repository for OAH data it provides 
     governments, scientists, and industry better access to the 
     information need to inform their mitigation and adaption 
     planning. Only by maximizing our current data and filling our 
     knowledge gaps of OAH, can we as a Nation begin to be able to 
     piece together for solutions for our coastal communities.
       (2) Projects or programs that promote coastal economic and 
     ecosystem resilience to OAH.
       Fisheries and aquaculture are central to our history, are 
     enjoyed by Americans across the nation year-round, and remain 
     key to many of Oregon's coastal economies today. Yet, the 
     future sustainability of these marine resources and 
     communities' ability to rely on them, are uncertain in the 
     face of significant ocean changes, including OAH, and 
     uncertain in the face of our current state of preparation to 
     adapt to those changes over time. This is why the Oregon OAH 
     Council supports activities and initiatives that promote 
     resilience to increased OAH conditions, for both human 
     communities and ecosystems. The COAST Research Act also 
     stresses the importance of increasing our understanding of 
     the socioeconomic effects of OA by expanding federal research 
     to assess adaptation and mitigation strategies. There will be 
     costs of inaction relative to CO2 mitigation and 
     the United States has an obligation to relieve these costs 
     wherever possible for our citizens.
       (3) Tools and strategies to increase awareness of OAH 
     science, impacts and solutions.
       As the impacts of OA intensify, it is going to be vitally 
     important for our Nation to identify and advance 
     opportunities to raise awareness of and communicate OAH 
     science, impacts, and mitigation solutions. This is why the 
     Oregon OAH Council is encouraged by the fact that the COAST 
     Research Act recognizes the need to address the effects of OA 
     on estuaries and integrate research, monitoring, and 
     adaptation strategies. By integrating OA causes and effects, 
     it better demonstrates the complexity of this climate issue, 
     and provides a clearer message to communities. The Oregon OAH 
     Council also supports the COAST Research Act establishment of 
     an Advisory Board to increase coordination among 
     stakeholders, including members of industry, to work with 
     State and Federal governments to improve coordination. 
     Recognizing the importance of a broad membership, our Oregon 
     OAH Council includes members from industry, academia and 
     state government agencies. For the benefit of our marine 
     ecosystem and the human communities that rely on a healthy 
     marine ecosystem, the Nation's adaptation and mitigation 
     approaches to OA should include successful communication of 
     new science, monitoring, and adaptation strategies.
       As Co-Chairs of the Oregon OAH Council, we appreciate the 
     opportunity to provide you with a letter of strong support 
     for the COAST Research Act. The strategic investment and 
     coordination opportunities outlined in this act are 
     meaningful and will make a difference in our understanding of 
     OAH science, impacts, and solutions. Through passage of this 
     Act and the subsequent investment in science, adaptation and 
     communications, the United States will demonstrate meaningful 
     action in fighting OA and the global challenges of climate 
     change, and preparing our citizens and economies for the 
     changes ahead.
       Thank you for your consideration of these comments.
           Sincerely,
     John Barth, PhD,
       Co-Chair, Oregon OAH Council, Executive Director, Marine 
     Studies Initiative, Oregon State University.
     Caren Braby, PhD,
       Co-Chair, Oregon OAH Council, Marine Resources Program 
     Manager, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife.
                                  ____

         Northwest Association of Networked Ocean Observing 
           Systems,
                                         Seattle, WA, 14 May 2021.
     Hon. Suzanne Bonamici,
     House of Representatives,
     Washington DC.
       Dear Congresswoman Bonamici: As the Director of the 
     Northwest Association of Ocean Observing Systems (NANOOS), I 
     write in support of the Coastal and Ocean Acidification 
     Stressors and Threats (COAST) Research Act.
       NANOOS provides access to near-real time observations, 
     forecasts, and other tools that can be used to observe water 
     properties in the Salish Sea and the coastal waters off 
     Washington and Oregon. NANOOS can only serve our stakeholders 
     via NOAA's Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS), which 
     links together Federal agencies with our collective of local 
     universities, government agencies, tribes, nonprofits, and 
     industry organizations who collect quality oceanographic and 
     meteorological data from moorings, buoys, and satellites from 
     across the Pacific Northwest region. But our resources are 
     limited and this COAST Research Act would help to highlight 
     the payoff investments can make.
       In the Pacific Northwest, we know that ocean acidification 
     is an issue already, as witnessed by the difference that 
     monitoring water chemistry has made to shellfish growers. We 
     know that impacts from ocean acidification may affect 
     shellfish harvesters, fishermen, resource managers, and 
     tribal and other coastal communities. NANOOS' work with IOOS 
     and NOAA's Ocean Acidification Program have been instrumental 
     in aiding adaptation.
       The COAST Research Act will enhance these and other efforts 
     to understand, monitor, and manage the nation's ability to 
     respond and adapt to ocean acidification. NANOOS will be 
     better able to meet the needs of our stakeholders if this Act 
     is passed.
       My thanks for your leadership and insights.
           Sincerely,
                                                       Jan Newton,
                                        NANOOS Executive Director.

  Ms. BONAMICI. Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
                                         House of Representatives,


                               Committee on Natural Resources,

                                   Washington, DC, April 19, 2021.
     Hon. Eddie Bernice Johnson,
     Chairwoman, Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, 
         House of Representatives, Washington, DC.
       Dear Chairwoman Johnson: In recognition of the goal of 
     expediting consideration of H.R. 1447, the ``Coastal and 
     Ocean Acidification Stressors and Threats Research Act of 
     2021,'' the Committee on Natural Resources agrees to waive 
     formal consideration of the bill as to provisions that fall 
     within the Rule X jurisdiction of the Committee on Natural 
     Resources.
       The Committee on Natural Resources takes this action with 
     the mutual understanding that, in doing so, we do not waive 
     any jurisdiction over the subject matter contained in this or 
     similar legislation, and that the Committee will be 
     appropriately consulted and involved as the bill or similar 
     legislation moves forward so that we may address any 
     remaining issues within our jurisdiction. Our Committee also 
     reserves the right to seek appointment of conferees to any 
     House-Senate conference involving this or similar 
     legislation.
       Thank you for agreeing to include our exchange of letters 
     in the Congressional Record. I appreciate your cooperation 
     regarding this legislation and look forward to continuing to 
     work with you as this measure moves through the legislative 
     process.
           Sincerely,

                                             Raul M. Grijalva,

                                                            Chair,
     House Natural Resources Committee.
                                  ____

         House of Representatives, Committee on Science, Space, 
           and Technology,
                                   Washington, DC, April 16, 2021.
     Chairman Raul M. Grijalva,
     Committee on Natural Resources,
     House of Representatives, Washington, DC.
       Dear Chairman Grijalva: I am writing to you concerning H.R. 
     1447, the ``Coastal and Ocean Acidification Stressors and 
     Threats Research Act of 2021,'' which was referred to the 
     Committee on Science, Space, and Technology on March 1, 2021.
       I appreciate your willingness to work cooperatively on this 
     bill. I recognize that the bill contains provisions that fall 
     within the jurisdiction of the Committee on Natural 
     Resources. I acknowledge that your Committee will waive 
     further consideration of H.R. 1447 and that this action is 
     not a waiver of future jurisdictional claims by the Committee 
     on Natural Resources over this subject matter.
       I will make sure to include our exchange of letters in the 
     Congressional Record and will support the appointment of the 
     Committee on Natural Resources conferees during any House-
     Senate conference. Thank you for your cooperation on this 
     legislation.
       Sincerely,
                                            Eddie Bernice Johnson,
                                                       Chairwoman.

                              {time}  1600

  Mr. LUCAS. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
  Madam Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 1447, the COAST Research Act 
of 2021. This bipartisan legislation would reauthorize and modernize 
the Federal Government's ocean acidification research and monitoring 
programs.
  Ocean acidification is the result of a gradual decrease in pH in the 
ocean chemistry. Even a small shift in pH can have a serious effect on 
marine ecosystems, including shellfish habitat, coral reefs, and 
fisheries habitat.

[[Page H2384]]

  Congress recognized the need for a better understanding of the causes 
and effects of ocean acidification and passed the Federal Ocean 
Acidification Research and Monitoring Act in 2009. That legislation 
created a framework for science agencies such as NOAA and the National 
Science Foundation to dedicate resources to studying the phenomenon. As 
a result, we made significant advancements in understanding ocean 
acidification over the last decade.
  H.R. 1447 reauthorizes the funding for NOAA and NSF efforts through 
the fiscal year 2026, which lapsed in fiscal year 2012. It also 
modernizes their activities by updating the strategic plan governing 
the Federal Government's research efforts and strengthening cooperation 
among scientific agencies.
  Additionally, the COAST Research Act designates NOAA as the lead 
agency for coordinating the Federal response to ocean and coastal 
acidification. This is an important step to streamline and organize 
efforts across the government.
  Finally, this bill ensures that the voices of stakeholders and 
industry from multiple regions are heard through a newly established 
advisory board. This input is critical to effectively integrate the 
many research, monitoring, and adaptation strategies for coastal 
acidification.
  This bill is the result of years of work in building a consensus 
among stakeholders, including ocean conservation groups, sportsmen, and 
coastal communities about how best to address this problem moving 
forward.
  Coastal communities and businesses will greatly benefit from this 
legislation and how better knowledge of ocean acidification improves 
our ability to respond to its effects.
  I thank Ms. Bonamici for introducing and leading this bill along with 
her House Oceans Caucus vice chair, Congressman   Don Young, along with 
the many bipartisan cosponsors.
  I urge my colleagues to support this bill, and I reserve the balance 
of my time.
  Ms. BONAMICI. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as she may consume to 
the gentlewoman from Maine (Ms. Pingree), a cosponsor of the COAST 
Research Act.
  Ms. PINGREE. Mr. Speaker, I thank the chair and the ranking member, 
who have shown a true willingness to address the impact climate change 
has had on our oceans; and to Congresswoman Bonamici and Congressman 
Young for their leadership on ocean and climate issues.
  I rise today in support of the gentlewoman's bill, H.R. 1447, the 
Coastal and Ocean Acidification Stressors and Threats Research Act, a 
bipartisan bill that would expand scientific research and monitoring to 
improve our understanding of ocean acidification.
  Our oceans absorb enormous amounts of carbon dioxide each year. That 
process is critical for regulating the amount of greenhouse gases in 
our atmosphere, but this comes at a high cost for oceans and dependent 
marine life.
  Coastal communities produce about 40 percent of our Nation's total 
jobs and 45 percent of our gross domestic product. Given those 
significant numbers, the financial implications will ripple across all 
American communities if this problem continues to intensify.
  We are already experiencing these impacts in my home State of Maine. 
The Gulf of Maine is warming faster than 99 percent of the world's 
oceans, and it is particularly susceptible to the effects of ocean 
acidification.
  As you know, Mr. Speaker, my State is renowned for its lobster and 
shellfish, so you can imagine we take this threat seriously. Bill Mook, 
an oyster farmer on Maine's Damariscotta River, has explained to me how 
he has adjusted his operations to mitigate for ocean acidification. 
Bill and so many growers are worried about how future oyster production 
will be affected when the problem outpaces the adaptations that can be 
made.
  I support the COAST Research Act because it would strengthen 
investments in ocean acidification research and monitoring, increase 
our understanding of the socioeconomic effects of ocean acidification, 
and more.
  Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting H.R. 1447. 
It is critical that we act to protect our oceans and our coastal 
communities so they are here for future generations.
  Mr. LUCAS. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the 
gentleman from Alaska (Mr. Young), one of the most outstanding 
individuals in this body; the dean of the House Republican Conference; 
the dean of the United States House; but, most importantly, and 
fortunately for his constituents, the dean of the Alaska congressional 
delegation.
  Mr. YOUNG. Mr. Speaker, I thank my good friend Mr. Lucas for his kind 
compliments. It is the best I have heard all day.
  I thank Ms. Bonamici, the chair of this committee, for bringing this 
bill to the floor.
  I am excited about it because the oceans and our waterways are 
important to our lives. More than anybody recognizes, water is the next 
big issue. Oceans do cover 76 percent of our globe. In doing so, if 
they get acidified, then we lose the oceans, not only what it provides 
to us, but livelihoods to many fishermen in my communities, which is 
very, very important.
  I am, very frankly, very excited about this legislation. We have to 
do more than legislation, though, because the acidification of the 
ocean, what causes it, we have to address. Some say it is climate 
change. Let's do that. Let's look at why.
  I have just been reading a very serious set of articles on e-fuels, 
which I was unaware were created by capturing CO2 and making 
it into another fuel which is cleaner, especially for maritime fleets. 
I am a mariner, and that would be very, very important because they are 
one of the more pollutant factors we have, yet they transport world 
goods. So we have to address that.
  As we pass this legislation, let's really go forth and make sure not 
only NOAA has the authority, but make sure they do the job. That is 
oversight. That is your job, Madam Chairman. That is what we have to do 
to make sure it is done and address the problem.
  You talk about your lobster. It is good, but not quite as good as our 
salmon, but it is okay. We have to work on that to make sure that we 
have a continued sustainable yield that we will be working with.
  Mr. LUCAS. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time.
  Mr. Speaker, I again rise to support H.R. 1447, the COAST Research 
Act of 2021. It is necessary, bipartisan legislation with support from 
Members representing a diverse range of districts.
  As I previously mentioned, significant progress toward our 
understanding the socioeconomic effects of ocean and coastal 
acidification has been made in the last decade. But to continue that 
progress, we need to update our priorities and our strategies.
  That is what this bill does. That is what will keep our communities, 
our businesses, and our entire economy at the forefront of managing and 
mitigating the environmental challenges we face.
  Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this bill, and I yield 
back the balance of my time.
  Ms. BONAMICI. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time.
  The basic chemistry of our ocean is changing at an unprecedented 
rate. We know that even if carbon dioxide emissions were halted today, 
many of the residual effects on our oceans will continue to occur over 
the course of the next few decades.
  Without intervention, ocean acidification is projected to become more 
intense and increasingly common, especially on the Pacific Coast. We 
must support vulnerable communities, industries, coastal and ocean 
managers by strengthening research on how they can best prepare for 
and, when possible, adapt to ocean and coastal acidification.
  By passing the bipartisan COAST Research Act, we are taking one 
important step forward in advancing ocean climate action.
  I, again, thank Chairwoman Johnson; Ranking Member Lucas; and my co-
leads on this bill, Representative Young, Pingree, and Posey for their 
support.
  I know Mr. Young from Alaska talked about his salmon. We would 
compete with salmon in the Pacific Northwest. We also have the prize 
dungeness crab, and Ms. Pingree has her lobsters. It is so critical for 
these industries that we pass this bill and advance ocean climate 
action.

[[Page H2385]]

  I, once again, urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to 
support this bipartisan bill.
  Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.
  Mr. POSEY. Mr. Speaker, I'm proud to join Congresswoman Bonamici as 
an original cosponsor.
  For those of us who live on the ``coast,'' the coast is that unique 
place where our lives, our environment, and our economy participate in 
a special relationship with the ocean.
  In my own State of Florida, we know that about 6 million people work 
in our coastal counties. They earn nearly $280 billion dollars in wages 
and produce close to $700 billion in gross domestic product.
  Life on the coast is rich in rewards, but also uncertain and often 
perilous.
  Those of us who live on the coast have known for a long time how 
important sustainability and resilience are for our coasts. We have 
weathered the storms of the past and we must do so in the future.
  Science and research are our best hope for continuing to live in 
harmony with our coasts.
  Research can prepare us for assaults on our coasts and help us defend 
our wildlife and biodiversity from threats like acidification.
  We must take care of our precious coasts so that we can continue to 
enjoy the lifestyle and the economic well-being we cherish.
  That is why I've joined Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici in directing 
NOAA to pick up the role of leading research for coastal acidification.
  I ask my colleagues to support the COAST Research Act.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Cuellar). The question is on the motion 
offered by the gentlewoman from Oregon (Ms. Bonamici) that the House 
suspend the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 1447, as amended.
  The question was taken.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the opinion of the Chair, two-thirds 
being in the affirmative, the ayes have it.
  Mr. ROSENDALE. Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to section 3(s) of House Resolution 
8, the yeas and nays are ordered.
  Pursuant to clause 8 of rule XX, further proceedings on this motion 
are postponed.

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