Bill > S599

This bill establishes a comprehensive approach to addressing ocean and coastal acidification in Massachusetts through several key provisions. First, it creates an annual Ocean Acidification Awareness Week in August to promote public education and citizen science initiatives. The bill defines critical terms like coastal acidification, coastal stressors, and eutrophication, and establishes an 11-member Ocean Acidification Council comprising government officials and public representatives. This council is tasked with understanding and acting against acidification threats, coordinating monitoring efforts, and developing a robust ocean monitoring system within three years. The council will conduct comprehensive studies on acidification's impacts, including its effects on marine species like lobsters and oysters, and its economic consequences. Additionally, the bill creates an Ocean Acidification Fund to finance marine habitat restoration and infrastructure improvements to reduce nutrient pollution. The council can implement targeted interventions in coastal watersheds, such as upgrading treatment works, replacing septic systems, and restoring salt marshes. By providing a multifaceted approach that combines research, monitoring, public awareness, and targeted interventions, the bill aims to comprehensively address the growing challenge of ocean and coastal acidification in Massachusetts.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S599