Sponsors (16)
Ask me what this bill is really trying to do.
This is not an official government website.
Copyright © 2026 PLEJ LC. All rights reserved.
Updates and expands the federal response to harmful algal blooms (HABs) and hypoxia by broadening the research and response programs, creating a national observing network and an incubator program, clarifying definitions, and requiring regular scientific assessments and multi-year action strategies. It also adds authorities and modest funding to speed assessment and reimbursement for major HAB/hypoxia events, clarifies Tribal and Native Hawaiian participation, and authorizes funding for fiscal years 2026–2030 for those activities.
Amend section 603 (33 U.S.C. 4001) to change headings and structure, add the Department of Energy to listed entities, remove several subsections, and reorganize paragraphs. This amendment also adds a new requirement that the Task Force produce an action strategy and scientific assessment for marine and freshwater harmful algal blooms.
Require the Task Force to complete and submit to Congress an action strategy for harmful algal blooms in the United States not less frequently than once every 5 years, including a scientific assessment. The Action Strategy must include specified elements such as regional chapters, examination of causes and impacts, evaluation of prevention and mitigation methods, research priorities, and coordination improvements.
Amend section 603A (33 U.S.C. 4002) for the National Harmful Algal Bloom and Hypoxia Program to: expand language to include monitoring, observing, and forecasting; add the scientific assessment and the Action Strategy as program components; broaden focus to marine, estuarine, and freshwater systems; and add specific program activities (examining causes and costs, improving monitoring, evaluating adaptation and mitigation, supporting seafood industry resilience, expanding toxin testing access, supporting sustained observations, and assessing combined effects with other stressors).
Revise NOAA activities (section 603B, 33 U.S.C. 4003) so the Under Secretary must carry out response activities for marine, coastal, and Great Lakes harmful algal bloom and hypoxia events; develop and enhance operational observing and forecasting programs (monitoring, modeling, data management, dissemination); develop forecast modeling that includes hurricane and other weather effects on nutrient resuspension; enhance interagency communication and coordination; leverage local research resources; and use cost-effective methods. Data collection must comply with Integrated Coastal and Ocean Observation System (IOOS) standards and be made available through the National Integrated Coastal and Ocean Observation System. fileciteturn0file1turn0file5
Insert a new section 603C establishing EPA activities: the Administrator must research ecology and human health impacts of freshwater harmful algal blooms and hypoxia; develop and enhance operational freshwater monitoring, observing, and forecasting programs (lakes, rivers, reservoirs) and coordinate with NOAA for Great Lakes and estuaries; enhance interagency coordination; leverage Federal, State, and local resources and expertise; use cost-effective methods; and ensure activities focus on new approaches and are not duplicative of existing programs. fileciteturn0file2turn0file5
Federal agencies (NOAA, EPA and others) will take on expanded leadership, planning, monitoring, and coordination duties and will need to implement a national observing network and incubator program. Researchers and the scientific community will gain clearer program priorities, recurring national assessments, and likely more coordinated funding opportunities. Tribal governments and Native Hawaiian organizations gain explicit definitions and eligibility, and may receive grants or reimbursements; the law also allows matching-fund waivers to lower barriers to participation. Coastal, freshwater, and other at-risk communities (including fisheries, shellfish growers, recreational and tourism businesses, and public health agencies) should benefit from improved monitoring, earlier warnings, and stronger response capacity, though some benefits depend on later appropriations and program implementation. State and local agencies and public water systems may receive federal support for event assessment and response; they may also be asked to participate in data sharing and local monitoring. The incubator and observing network aim to accelerate practical tools and data flows, which could reduce economic and health impacts from HAB and hypoxia events over time. Overall administrative and reporting demands on federal and partner organizations will increase because of required periodic assessments and action strategies.
Expand sections to see detailed analysis
Received in the House.
Passed Senate without amendment and an amendment to the Title by Unanimous Consent.
Introduced January 14, 2025 by Daniel Scott Sullivan · Last progress September 11, 2025
Held at the desk.
Received in the House.
Message on Senate action sent to the House.
Passed Senate without amendment and an amendment to the Title by Unanimous Consent.