New Puerto Rico BEACHES Act Launches Federal Study on Coastal Erosion's Economic Toll

The Puerto Rico Business Economic Assessment of Coastal Hazards and Erosion Study Act—mercifully shortened to the Puerto Rico BEACHES Act—is essentially a directive to the federal government to stop guessing and start measuring the real economic damage caused by coastal erosion in Puerto Rico. Specifically, Section 2 tasks the Comptroller General of the United States, who heads the Government Accountability Office (GAO), with conducting a comprehensive study on how the loss of beaches, dunes, and wetlands is hitting key industries like tourism, fishing, and local businesses in the island's coastal zones.

The Erosion Problem is an Economic Problem

This bill recognizes that when the sand washes away, so does the economy. For the local economy, coastal erosion isn't just an environmental issue; it’s a direct threat to jobs and revenue. Think about the small, family-run hotel or the local fishing charter operator. If the beach disappears, tourists stop booking and fish habitats vanish. This study is designed to quantify that impact. It covers a broad definition of "coastal area," including coastal waters, watersheds, and the land right next to them, meaning the GAO has a mandate to look at the whole picture, not just the shoreline itself.

Local Expertise Required, Not Optional

One of the most important provisions in the bill is the requirement for coordination. The GAO can’t just fly in, run some models, and leave. Section 2 mandates that they consult with key local agencies, including the Puerto Rico Department of Natural and Environmental Resources, the Department of Economic Development, and the Puerto Rico Tourism Company. This is crucial because it ensures that the federal analysis is grounded in the reality faced by the people managing these resources daily. It's the difference between a theoretical report and a useful roadmap.

What Comes Next: Actionable Recommendations

The goal here isn't just a report to sit on a shelf. The final findings sent to Congress must include concrete suggestions. The GAO is required to recommend ways to both lessen the environmental problems hurting coastal businesses and address the specific industry problems caused by erosion. For example, if the study finds that erosion is severely limiting access for small fishing boats, the recommendations might include specific infrastructure changes or mitigation strategies. For anyone working in or relying on Puerto Rico’s coastal economy, this study is the first step toward getting federal attention and potentially targeted funding to address a growing crisis.