Bill > SJR20

This resolution addresses the significant marine debris challenges facing Alaska by supporting comprehensive efforts to prevent, clean up, and remove marine debris from the state's extensive shorelines. Recognizing that Alaska has over 30,000 miles of shoreline and faces serious environmental and economic impacts from marine debris, the resolution urges federal agencies like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to provide additional funding and remove barriers for tribes and rural communities in accessing those funds. The resolution highlights the adverse effects of marine debris, including harm to wildlife, habitat destruction, and interference with fishing and tourism, and calls on the Alaska Congressional delegation to advocate for increased federal support for marine debris prevention, cleanup, removal, transportation (backhaul), and education. Additionally, the resolution encourages the state to collaborate with coastal communities, tribes, nonprofit organizations, municipal departments, and the private sector to comprehensively address marine debris challenges, acknowledging the critical importance of maintaining healthy oceans and shorelines to Alaska's economy and way of life.