New Bill Promises One-Stop Shop for Waterway Rules: 'Modernizing Access to Our Public Oceans Act' Aims for Clarity by 2028

The "Modernizing Access to Our Public Oceans Act" is all about making it easier to figure out where you can boat, fish, and generally enjoy federal waterways. Instead of scattered info and confusing rules, this bill pushes for a single, easy-to-use website with all the details on waterway restrictions and fishing regulations.

Making Waves: What the Bill Changes

This bill sets some deadlines. Within 31 months of becoming law, the Secretary of Commerce has to create standards for collecting and sharing data on how we use federal waterways for recreation, and any fishing restrictions (Section 3). Think of it like setting the rules for how information is organized so it's consistent and actually useful. Then, within four years, they have to launch a public website (Section 4). This site will be the go-to source for info on:

• Waterway Restrictions: What's open or closed, and to what (boats, low-flying aircraft, diving, etc.). It'll cover restrictions on motors, anchoring, speed limits, and what types of watercraft are allowed.
• Fishing Restrictions: Where fishing is limited or prohibited, including no-catch zones and rules around marine protected areas. It will also include any restrictions on fishing methods (like needing to use circle hooks).
• Navigation Data: The site will also keep providing digital charts for navigation and water depth.

For example, imagine a family in Florida planning a weekend boating trip. Instead of checking multiple websites, they could use this one-stop-shop to see if there are any speed restrictions in their planned route, or if a nearby area is temporarily closed to fishing. Or, a charter boat captain in Alaska could quickly check for updated fishing regulations before heading out, avoiding potential fines.

Keeping it Current and Collaborative

The bill recognizes that things change. So, it mandates that waterway and navigation data be updated at least twice a year, and fishing restrictions must be updated in real-time as changes occur (Section 4). This is crucial for anyone relying on this information for safe and legal recreation. There's even a way for the public to ask questions or point out issues with the data (Section 4). The bill also encourages the Secretary of Commerce to work with state agencies, fishing groups, data experts, and even private companies to make this happen (Section 5). This teamwork approach could lead to a more comprehensive and user-friendly system.

Navigating Potential Challenges

While the goal is clear, there are a few things to keep an eye on. Making sure the website is truly accessible to everyone, regardless of their tech skills or internet access, will be key. Also, the bill specifically says it doesn't change any existing definitions of "navigable waters" or mess with how federal or state agencies regulate them (Section 6). This means the underlying legal battles over water rights aren't being addressed here – this is strictly about making the existing rules easier to find and understand.