Sponsors (7)
Declares U.S. policy that sea level rise caused by climate change should not cause an island or coastal State to lose its statehood or maritime zones, and commits the United States to encourage other countries to adopt the same approach and to publish stable coastal baselines. Requires the Secretary of State, with other federal agencies, to deliver an unclassified report to Congress (with an optional classified annex) within 120 days of enactment describing U.S. diplomatic efforts, barriers encountered, and which countries or organizations have adopted related policies.
Increasing sea levels pose an existential threat to low-lying island States in the Pacific Ocean.
Maritime zones are critical for the economies of the Pacific Islands, which depend on exclusive rights to resources.
New trends are developing in the practices and views of States on the need for stable maritime zones in the face of sea level rise, as reflected in the approach taken by members of the Pacific Islands Forum and the Alliance of Small Island States.
Sea level rise driven by climate change should not cause any country to lose its statehood or its membership in the United Nations, its specialized agencies, or other international organizations.
The United States is committed to working with other countries on issues relating to sea level rise and statehood to advance these objectives.
Primary impacts
Pacific and other low-lying island States: The bill is aimed at protecting the maritime rights these countries depend on for fisheries, resources, and economic zones by promoting policies that keep maritime zones stable despite shoreline changes.
Coastal shoreline communities and fishers: Communities that rely on ocean resources could see indirect protection of national maritime claims if other countries and international bodies adopt similar policies.
U.S. Department of State and interagency partners: Responsible for diplomatic outreach and producing the required report within 120 days. Agencies may need to allocate staff time and analytical resources to prepare the report and coordinate international engagement.
International organizations and foreign governments: The legislation pressures these actors to consider and possibly adopt policies preserving maritime claims when sea level rise moves baselines.
Practical effects and limits
Last progress June 5, 2025 (8 months ago)
Introduced on June 5, 2025 by Ami Bera
Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.