In January I shared the Senate victory when S. 22, The Omnibus Public Land Management Act of 2008 passed 73-21. The package includes ocean exploration, NOAA undersea research, ocean and coastal mapping integration, the integrated coastal and ocean observation system*, federal ocean acidification research and monitoring, coastal and estuarine land conservation, and lots more.
Today I’m delighted to add that the House version–H.R. 146–just passed as well meaning it’s all on the cusp of becoming law! Folks, this is as much a bill about the environment as it is about people and our collective future. So you bet I’m excited and encouraged over today’s win… Next stop President Obama!
* hat tip to Senator Snowe for all her terrific work!
“Today Congress confirmed its commitment to realizing the vast potential of ocean science and research,” said Senator Snowe, Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Oceans, Atmospheres, Fisheries, and Coast Guard. “Oceans make up nearly three-quarters of the Earth’s surface and impact the economy, environment, and culture of the entire global community yet the physical properties and natural systems of the ocean world remain largely a mystery. This legislation will help our country unlock these mysteries by developing a national integrated system of ocean observing efforts that will provide a range of invaluable public services — such as improving our ability to gauge the impact of major disasters and predict ocean and climate trends. I am proud to support these critical programs that will stimulate economic growth and science-based
March 25th, 2009 at 2:50 pm
Very encouraging development. The bill looks very comprehensive. You must be especially proud as a marine biologist.
March 25th, 2009 at 2:55 pm
I’m really glad to hear this. as a water person I can’t wait to see what they find.
March 25th, 2009 at 3:03 pm
This is an enormous win and big step forward for all of us on this planet.
Our new administration certainly takes the lead!
March 26th, 2009 at 9:08 am
[...] Kirshenbaum of the new Intersection blog at Discover alerts us that the House passed HR 146 yesterday, so the big ocean bill is one step closer to [...]
March 26th, 2009 at 1:49 pm
[...] the House and the Senate have approved increased funding for ocean research! Sheril broke the news yesterday: The package includes ocean exploration, NOAA undersea research, ocean and coastal mapping [...]
March 26th, 2009 at 6:18 pm
This is great news! Thanks for the tip, though I’ve been too caught up in the Soyuz launch today to do it justice!
March 30th, 2009 at 3:32 pm
[...] It is written… [...]