Great Lakes Fishery Research Reauthorization Act
Summary
The Great Lakes Fishery Research Reauthorization Act reauthorizes funding for monitoring, assessing, and researching the Great Lakes Basin. Specifically, it amends Section 201(d) of title II of division P of the Further Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2020, extending the funding authorization from 2025 to 2030. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives and referred to the Committee on Natural Resources before being committed to the Committee of the Whole House on the State of the Union.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill is the continuation of existing research and monitoring programs in the Great Lakes Basin. This ensures the ongoing collection of data and assessment of the health and status of the Great Lakes ecosystem. This extension allows for continued efforts to manage and protect this vital natural resource.
Potential Benefits
- Continued monitoring and assessment of the Great Lakes ecosystem.
- Supports informed decision-making for resource management.
- Promotes the long-term health and sustainability of the Great Lakes fisheries.
- Facilitates collaborative research efforts among various stakeholders.
- Helps to address emerging threats to the Great Lakes, such as invasive species and pollution.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for inefficient use of funds if programs are not effectively managed.
- Limited scope, focusing primarily on research and monitoring rather than direct remediation.
- The reauthorization does not address new or emerging challenges beyond the scope of existing research programs.
- May not directly translate into immediate improvements in water quality or fish populations.
- Dependence on continued appropriations, which could be subject to future political changes.
Constitutional Alignment
The reauthorization of funding for Great Lakes research aligns with the General Welfare Clause of the Constitution (Preamble). This clause allows Congress to enact legislation that promotes the well-being of the nation, including environmental protection and resource management. Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to appropriate funds for the general welfare, which includes environmental research.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).