Sponsors (26)
Introduced February 3, 2026 by Doris Matsui · Last progress February 3, 2026
The bill increases federal investment in whale mapping and near‑real‑time monitoring—likely improving conservation outcomes and reducing vessel strikes while supporting coastal businesses—at the cost of millions in new federal spending and added administrative and implementation burdens that may shift agency priorities and affect some researchers.
Scientists and researchers receive dedicated, recurring federal funding (annual program plus $10M grant pool) to map, monitor, and study migratory whales, enabling more comprehensive data collection and long‑term research.
Vessel operators, coastal communities, and marine species benefit from a near real‑time monitoring subprogram that enables timely mitigation in high‑risk areas, reducing vessel‑strike risk to whales.
Small businesses in fishing, tourism, and maritime sectors gain targeted grant opportunities prioritized for projects that foster cooperation among ocean users, supporting local coastal economies.
All taxpayers face increased federal spending because the bill establishes new recurring programs and grants that cost millions annually from FY2026–2030.
Eligible organizations and grant recipients may see slightly less funding available for projects because an administering nonprofit may retain up to 5% of funds for administration.
Some researchers and international collaborators could be disadvantaged by the bill's prioritization and eligibility rules, potentially limiting multinational studies and partnerships.
Based on analysis of 2 sections of legislative text.
Creates and expands a federal program to map, survey, monitor, and reduce vessel-strike risks to migratory whales and other large cetaceans. It funds mapping, targeted surveys of understudied stocks, a near real-time vessel‑strike mitigation subprogram, and a competitive grant program run through a cooperative agreement with the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, and sets deadlines and reporting requirements for implementation.