S. 216 · 119th Congress · Senate
Save Our Seas 2.0 Amendments Act
Introduced 2025-01-23 · Sponsored by Sen. Sullivan, Dan [R-AK] (R-AK) · Last updated 2026-03-31
Last action (2025-12-26): Became Public Law No: 119-65.
Summary
Extends NOAA's Marine Debris Program through 2029 and updates how the program and the Marine Debris Foundation operate. The program funds research, cleanup, and prevention of ocean trash that affects fisheries, tourism, and marine ecosystems. The update also lets NOAA contribute directly to project costs and expands the foundation's fundraising tools.
The Good
Extends marine debris cleanup programs through FY2029
Reauthorizes NOAA's Marine Debris Program, which funds research, removal, and prevention of marine debris. Ocean plastic pollution affects fisheries, tourism, and marine ecosystems, and continued federal investment is necessary for long-term progress.
The Bad
Domestic cleanup does not address the largest sources of ocean plastic
The majority of ocean plastic pollution originates from rivers in Asia and Africa. While domestic cleanup is valuable, critics argue the resources would have greater impact if directed toward international source reduction.
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