Bill > HR663

This bill seeks to oppose deep seabed mining by establishing a congressional position that halts such activities until comprehensive scientific understanding and robust international regulations are in place. The bill outlines several key findings, including the significant risks deep seabed mining poses to marine ecosystems, such as species loss, sediment disruption, noise pollution, and potential contamination of food fish. It calls on the President to direct U.S. representatives in international organizations to advocate for a moratorium on deep seabed mining permits and oppose related investments. The bill emphasizes that no deep seabed mining should occur in international waters without a full and binding regulatory framework from the International Seabed Authority (ISA) that is based on scientific consensus about potential environmental impacts. Specifically, the bill requires that before any mining can proceed, the ISA must develop regulations that are scientifically informed, ensure effective marine environment protection, and do not pose risks to ocean-dependent communities. The President must also submit a certification and report detailing the proposed regulations, the scientific consensus on their impacts, and how they will protect marine ecosystems. Fundamentally, the bill aims to prioritize marine environmental conservation and sustainable ocean management.

Military Affairs and Security

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/663/all-info