H.R.1808 - Keep America’s Waterfronts Working Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1808, the "Keep America's Waterfronts Working Act of 2025," aims to amend the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972. It seeks to establish a working waterfronts Task Force and grant/loan programs to support the preservation and development of working waterfronts. The bill authorizes appropriations of $50 million annually from 2025 through 2029 for both the grant program and the loan fund.
Expected Effects
The bill's passage would likely lead to increased federal involvement in coastal zone management, with a focus on preserving working waterfronts. This would involve creating a task force to identify critical needs and providing financial assistance through grants and loans. Ultimately, the goal is to support coastal communities and industries dependent on working waterfronts.
Potential Benefits
- Preservation of working waterfronts and access to coastal waters.
- Support for commercial and recreational fishing, boating businesses, aquaculture, and related industries.
- Potential for economic growth and job creation in coastal communities.
- Climate adaptation and mitigation activities for working waterfronts.
- Increased public access to coastal waters.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased federal regulation and bureaucracy.
- Financial burden on taxpayers through the allocation of grants and loans.
- Possible conflicts between economic development and environmental protection.
- Risk of inefficient or ineffective allocation of resources.
- Potential for disputes over the definition and scope of "working waterfronts."
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the General Welfare Clause (Article I, Section 8) of the U.S. Constitution, which allows Congress to provide for the general welfare of the United States. The establishment of a task force and grant/loan programs could be seen as promoting the economic and environmental well-being of coastal communities. However, questions may arise regarding the extent of federal authority over coastal zone management, potentially implicating issues of federalism and state sovereignty.
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).