Modernizing Access to Our Public Oceans Act

This bill would make it easier for people to know where they can boat, fish, and dive in federal ocean waters by creating clear, public maps and data. It tells the Commerce Department to set common mapping standards within about 31 months, then launch a public website within 4 years that shows open and closed areas, safety closures (like harmful algal blooms), and rules for recreational boats such as motor or horsepower limits. The site would also offer navigation tools like depth charts and seafloor data, and let people sign up for updates when new information is posted.

The data must be easy to find and reuse, with some parts refreshing in real time. It will also list federal marine protected areas and explain what activities are allowed in each one. Sensitive cultural sites and private commercial fishing information will not be shared, and Tribal waters and usual or accustomed Tribal fishing areas are excluded. Agencies are encouraged to work with states, Tribes, schools, nonprofits, and industry on this effort. The bill does not change who controls waterways or fishery rules, and it does not affect Tribal rights.

• Who is affected: Recreational boaters, divers, and anglers; States and local governments; Indian Tribes and Native Hawaiian organizations; federal agencies; nonprofits; universities; and tech/mapping companies.
• What changes: A public map of closures and rules; navigation info (like depth charts); an easy way to get updates and send comments; regular data updates, with some information updated in real time.
• When: Mapping standards due in about 31 months; the public website due within 4 years; data updated at least twice a year, with some items updated in real time.