Restoring Resilient Reefs Act of 2021

Rubio, Marco

Restoring Resilient Reefs Act of 2021 This bill addresses the conservation and sustainability of coral reef ecosystems. Among other things, the bill <ul> <li>reauthorizes through FY2024 and revises the Coral Reef Conservation Program;</li> <li>directs the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to provide block grants to states to support state coral reef management and restoration;</li> <li>requires NOAA to establish standards for the formation of partnerships among government and community members for the stewardship of coral reefs;</li> <li>provides statutory authority for the U.S. Coral Reef Task Force to lead, coordinate, and strengthen federal government actions to preserve, conserve, and restore coral reef ecosystems; </li> <li>requires the Department of the Interior to provide grants upon the declaration of a coral reef emergency to implement emergency plans;</li> <li>authorizes Interior to provide scientific expertise, technical assistance, and financial assistance for the conservation and restoration of coral reefs; and</li> <li>establishes a National Coral Reef Management Fellowship Program.</li> </ul>