MARITIME Act

This bill sets a clear U.S. policy on sea level rise and its impact on countries, especially small island and coastal nations. It says rising seas should not cause any country to lose its nation status or membership in world organizations, and should not shrink the ocean areas these countries rely on for food and jobs. It supports keeping existing maritime boundaries in place, consistent with international law, even if shorelines move because of climate change. It also backs efforts by island nations to mark and publish their coastal baselines now. The bill notes that Pacific Island economies depend heavily on their ocean zones and face serious risk from rising seas.

The bill requires the Secretary of State to send Congress a report within 120 days. The report must explain what the U.S. is doing to promote these policies around the world, identify any barriers, and list which countries and organizations have adopted similar policies. The report will be unclassified, but may include a classified annex if needed.

• Who is affected: Small island and coastal countries; U.S. foreign policy and the State Department; international organizations.
• What changes: The U.S. commits to opposing loss of statehood or ocean zones due to sea level rise, urges other countries to adopt the same approach, and supports setting and publishing coastal baselines.
• When: A report to Congress is due 120 days after the bill becomes law.