The bill would direct the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to establish an Oyster Reef Restoration and Conservation Program. The program would offer technical and financial help for planning, restoring, protecting, and monitoring oyster reefs, and create competitive grants for related projects. Grant applicants would need to show their projects would not reasonably interfere with fishing or other water-related uses. The bill would preserve state and Tribal authority to manage oyster reefs and oyster species.
Government agencies, nonprofits, schools, shellfish businesses, and other eligible applicants could seek assistance or grants. The program would also support workforce training, with special attention to underserved communities. No direct benefits or requirements for the general public are specified.
The bill would authorize $15 million for each fiscal year from 2026 through 2030. This is an authorization of appropriations, not a statement that the money has been provided.
No publicly available information.
No publicly available information.