# Save Our Seas 2.0 Amendments Act: What It Does

This bill makes changes to how the federal government manages marine debris—the trash and pollution that ends up in our oceans. It focuses on improving two main programs: the Marine Debris Foundation and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) Marine Debris Program. Think of it as updating the rulebook for how these organizations operate so they can work more effectively.

The first major change involves the Marine Debris Foundation, which is a nonprofit organization that funds projects to clean up ocean debris and prevent future pollution. The bill gives this foundation more independence and flexibility. It allows the foundation to hire its own leadership team and make decisions without as much government micromanagement. It also clarifies that the foundation can work with Native American tribes and international organizations on cleanup projects, not just state and local governments. Additionally, the bill allows the foundation to set up its main office in a coastal state rather than being stuck in Washington, D.C., which could help it be closer to the communities and oceans it serves.

The second major change affects NOAA's Marine Debris Program by expanding the types of partnerships and funding arrangements it can use. The program can now enter into more flexible agreements with various organizations—including nonprofits, foreign governments, and international groups—to tackle marine debris problems. The bill also allows NOAA to contribute resources and equipment to projects rather than just money, and it lets the program accept funding from a wider range of sources. These changes make it easier for NOAA to collaborate with different partners and respond quickly to marine debris challenges without getting bogged down in bureaucratic red tape.

Save Our Seas 2.0 Amendments Act

Bonamici, Suzanne

Save Our Seas 2.0 Amendments Act This bill revises provisions governing the administration of the Marine Debris Foundation and the Marine Debris Program. Specifically, the bill allows the foundation to use up to 12% of appropriated funds for administrative expenses. Those expenses may include employee salaries for the two years following the bill's enactment. The bill also allows the foundation to locate its principal office outside of the District of Columbia and encourages the foundation to locate it in a coastal state. In addition, the bill requires the foundation to develop best practices for conducting outreach to Indian tribes. The bill also requires the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to approve appointments to the foundation's board of directors. NOAA may enter into other agreements, outside of contracts, under the Marine Debris Program. NOAA may also make in-kind contributions for projects under the program.