Bill > S759

This bill aims to improve public access to information about recreational use of federal waters by requiring the Secretary of Commerce to develop and publish standardized geospatial data within four years. Specifically, the bill mandates creating a publicly accessible website with detailed geographic information about the exclusive economic zone, including fishing restrictions, areas open or closed to recreational activities, vessel use limitations, and marine protected areas. The data must be regularly updated at least twice a year, organized to be easily findable and accessible, and include a mechanism for users to receive notifications about new information. The Secretary is authorized to collaborate with various entities such as state governments, Native American tribes, nonprofit organizations, academic institutions, and private sector technology companies to develop and maintain this data. The bill includes important protections, such as not disclosing sensitive information about historic or archaeological resources or proprietary commercial fishing data. Importantly, the bill explicitly states that it does not modify existing legal definitions, jurisdictions, or agency authorities related to water management, and does not affect tribal rights or consultation requirements.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/759/all-info