Legislative Activity

The MARA Act of 2026 establishes a comprehensive federal framework to coordinate and regulate the sustainable development of offshore aquaculture in U.S. waters. The bill creates a dedicated office within NOAA to streamline permitting, mandate rigorous environmental best practices, and ensure meaningful input from coastal communities and Tribal governments. Additionally, it supports industry growth through technical assistance and marketing initiatives while commissioning independent scientific and regulatory studies to guide long-term policy.

This bill establishes a federal framework to support the development of a sustainable offshore aquaculture industry through the creation of a dedicated Office of Aquaculture and a commercial-scale demonstration program. It streamlines the permitting process while mandating rigorous environmental oversight, safety standards, and public reporting. Additionally, the legislation invests in workforce development and research through new grant programs and partnerships with minority-serving and Tribal institutions.

The "United States Coast Guard Corrosion Control Assistance Team Pilot Program Act" directs the Coast Guard to establish a three-year pilot program aimed at improving the maintenance and service life of maritime assets. By deploying specialized technical teams to provide on-site assistance and training, the program seeks to implement best practices for corrosion prevention modeled after successful Department of Defense initiatives. The Coast Guard will evaluate the program's effectiveness through data collection and reporting to determine the feasibility of a permanent, full-scale corrosion control strategy.

The Vessel Identification Protection Act of 2026 establishes new federal crimes to combat the tampering, falsification, and trafficking of vessels with altered identification numbers. This legislation aims to prevent maritime fraud by imposing significant fines and prison sentences on those who knowingly obscure vessel identities or trade in illicitly modified watercraft.

This resolution expresses strong support and appreciation for America's law enforcement professionals, recognizing their daily service and sacrifice. It honors officers who have been injured or killed in the line of duty and highlights recent crime reduction successes attributed to their efforts. The bill calls for increased support, including better equipment, training, mental health resources, and tougher penalties for assaulting officers, to ensure their safety and effectiveness.

The Offshore Parity Act of 2026 aims to grant Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama expanded management authority over submerged lands extending out to three marine leagues from their coastlines. This delegation covers oil, gas, and other energy activities, allowing the states to manage new leases if they meet specific criteria within five years. Additionally, the Act extends state jurisdiction for fisheries management within these expanded waters, while preserving federal control over certain species and national security matters.

This bill officially renames the United States Postal Service facility located at 825 Highway 198 in Beaumont, Mississippi. Upon enactment, the facility will be known as the Jeremy Malone Post Office. This change will be reflected in all official records and documents referencing the location.

This bill reauthorizes the Integrated Coastal and Ocean Observation System Act of 2009, updating its governing structure and expanding the scope of its oceanographic research and data-sharing capabilities. It also mandates improved collaboration between regional and federal observing systems to enhance data integration. Additionally, the legislation authorizes $47.5 million in annual funding for these initiatives from fiscal years 2026 through 2030.

The Cormorant Relief Act of 2025 mandates the Secretary of the Interior to reissue and maintain a federal rule allowing the control of double-crested cormorants at aquaculture facilities in specified states. This reissued rule must modernize terminology and recordkeeping while removing the previous expiration date. The Secretary is required to renew this depredation order every five years, ensuring compliance with existing environmental and wildlife protection laws.

This bill, the NFIP Retroactive Renewal and Reauthorization Act, extends the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) until December 31, 2026. It retroactively applies these extensions to September 30, 2025, if enacted after that date. The legislation ensures the continued financing and operation of the NFIP.

This bill aims to establish and support the commercial-scale offshore aquaculture industry through several key actions. It creates a centralized Office of Aquaculture to coordinate regulatory and scientific efforts and mandates demonstration projects to assess the viability and safety of ocean farming. Furthermore, the legislation invests in workforce development, establishes university Centers of Excellence, and provides grants to preserve vital working waterfronts.

This bill, the Marine Fisheries Habitat Protection Act, establishes a streamlined process for converting inactive offshore oil and gas platforms and pipelines into artificial reefs. It defines key terms and outlines steps for applicants to seek approval to leave these structures in place, provided they meet environmental and safety criteria. The legislation also facilitates the transfer of long-term liability for these new reefs to participating state agencies. This process temporarily halts government removal orders while applications are under review.

This bill extends the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) to ensure continuous flood insurance coverage. It specifically moves the program's expiration date from late 2023 to November 21, 2025. This extension provides Congress with additional time to develop long-term reforms for the program.

The Fairness and Accountability of Appeals Act of 2025 ensures that individuals who successfully appeal or win arbitration regarding disaster assistance decisions will have their associated attorney fees reimbursed by the Administrator. This provision aims to reduce the financial burden on successful appellants seeking fair disaster aid rulings.

This resolution commemorates the 20th anniversary of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, recognizing the immense devastation and loss suffered across the Gulf Coast. It honors the heroic efforts of first responders and the resilience of the affected communities. Furthermore, the resolution reaffirms the commitment to supporting the ongoing rebuilding, renewal, and restoration of the vital Gulf Coast region.

The Port Crane Tax Credit Act of 2025 establishes new federal tax incentives to bolster the domestic manufacturing of port cranes. It introduces a 25% investment tax credit for building or equipping U.S. facilities dedicated to crane production. Additionally, the bill creates a production credit for manufacturers selling qualifying U.S.-made port cranes, with higher rates for those using significant domestic components. Both credits offer flexible options for businesses, including transferability and elective payment.

This bill aims to unleash America's access to critical minerals on the seabed by accelerating domestic exploration and recovery efforts. It mandates federal agencies to establish expedited processes, within 60 days, for issuing licenses and permits for mineral recovery on the Outer Continental Shelf and in international waters. The legislation seeks to secure vital supply chains for national security and energy while establishing U.S. leadership in responsible seabed resource development.

This bill amends federal law to allow owners of U.S.-flagged vessels and marine terminal operators to establish Capital Construction Funds. These funds can now be used for purchasing, replacing, or upgrading eligible cargo handling equipment at U.S. marine terminals. The legislation also updates definitions and establishes rules regarding fund deposits, qualified withdrawals, and prohibits the use of funds for certain automated or China-manufactured equipment.

The Capacity Building for Business Districts Pilot Program Act of 2025 establishes a new federal program to strengthen local business districts, particularly in underserved communities. This program will award grants to larger intermediary organizations, which will then provide technical assistance, training, and capacity building support to smaller, local groups managing neighborhood commercial areas. The goal is to enhance the ability of these local organizations to drive economic growth, job creation, and revitalization in distressed and rural areas.

This Concurrent Resolution formally expresses the appreciation of Congress for the dedication and service of local law enforcement officers across the nation. It recognizes the sacrifices made by officers and their families in keeping communities safe. The resolution also encourages strong partnerships between police departments and the communities they serve.