South Florida Clean Coastal Waters Act of 2021
Jun 16, 2022
Statute: 136 Stat. 1266
Became law: Jun 16, 2022
Jun 16, 2022
Statute: 136 Stat. 1266
Became law: Jun 16, 2022
Summary
Directs a federal task force to study and create a plan for reducing and controlling harmful algal blooms and low-oxygen water in South Florida.
What problem does this solve?
Harmful algal blooms and low-oxygen water are damaging South Florida's coastal areas without a coordinated response. This law requires a federal task force to create an integrated plan to reduce and control these environmental threats.
What does this law do?
Mandates an integrated assessment of South Florida waters
Requires the Inter-Agency Task Force on Harmful Algal Blooms and Hypoxia to complete a detailed study of the causes and effects of harmful algal blooms and hypoxia in South Florida.
Requires a new action plan
Directs the Task Force to develop a plan to reduce, mitigate, and control harmful algal blooms and hypoxia in South Florida based on its assessment.
Requires collaboration with local and state groups
Mandates that the Task Force consult with the State of Florida, local and tribal governments, academic institutions, and industry stakeholders when developing the action plan.
Proposes an early warning system
The action plan must include a proposal for a remote monitoring network to alert local communities about harmful algal bloom risks that could affect human health.
Who does this affect?
- Residents of South Florida
- Florida's fishing and tourism industries
- State and local governments in Florida
What is the real world impact?
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Creates a coordinated environmental plan
Requires various government agencies, scientists, and local groups to work together on a single plan to address harmful algal blooms and low-oxygen zones in South Florida's coastal waters.
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Focuses on planning, not immediate action
The law mandates the creation of assessments and plans rather than funding direct cleanup or prevention efforts. Critics might argue this delays tangible solutions, as the final action plan is not due for over three years.
When does this start?
This law sets several deadlines for the creation of assessments and action plans over the next few years.
Interim integrated assessment due
The Task Force must submit an interim integrated assessment to Congress and the President within 540 days of the law's enactment.
Finalized integrated assessment due
The Task Force must submit the finalized integrated assessment to Congress and the President within 3 years of the law's enactment.
Action plan due
The Task Force must develop and submit its action plan to Congress within 3 years and 180 days of the law's enactment.
Biennial progress reports
After submitting the action plan, the Task Force must provide progress reports to Congress every two years.