Summary
Gives the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service the power to work with others to protect and fix coastal areas where important animals like birds and fish live.
What problem does this solve?
Coastal areas that are home to important fish and wildlife are facing threats and need protection. This law officially supports a government program that partners with groups to plan and carry out projects to save these habitats.
Who does this affect?
- Coastal communities
- Conservation organizations
- State, local, and Tribal governments
What does this law do?
Officially authorizes the coastal program
Gives official legal power to the Coastal Program, which is run by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, to protect and restore coastal areas.
Authorizes funding for five years
Approves spending of $16,957,000 for each year from 2024 through 2028 to carry out the program's work.
Requires yearly public reports
Makes the Secretary of the Interior submit a report each year to Congress and the public. The report must detail the program's work, progress, spending, and challenges.
Focuses on partnerships
Directs the program to work with state, local, and Tribal governments, as well as non-profits and private citizens, to protect coastal habitats.
What is the real world impact?
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Provides stable support for an existing program
Formally authorizes the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's Coastal Program, giving it a solid legal foundation and consistent funding. This helps ensure the program can continue its work protecting coastal areas for the long term.
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Encourages public-private partnerships
Promotes working with state and local governments, non-profits, and private landowners. This allows the government to achieve conservation goals on a larger scale by using the resources and help of many different groups.
When does this start?
This law becomes effective on December 11, 2024, and includes several key deadlines.
Funding authorization period
Authorizes funding for the program for each of the fiscal years from 2024 through 2028.