Bill > HB38

This bill establishes the Alabama Seagrass Restoration Task Force to address the loss of seagrass in Alabama's marine waters, which has significant ecological and economic consequences. The task force will be composed of various members, including representatives from the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, the University of South Alabama, legislative committees, state agencies like the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, the Mobile Bay National Estuary Program, private commercial enterprises, other universities, environmental organizations, and county commissions, with efforts to ensure diverse representation. This group is charged with developing innovative, cost-effective, and sustainable technologies to restore seagrass ecosystems and will create a 10-year restoration plan. The Dauphin Island Sea Lab will serve as the fiscal agent for funds appropriated to the task force, manage administrative costs, and facilitate collaboration with other organizations for research and technology development, and the task force can also accept outside gifts and grants. The task force is required to meet at least twice a year, with its first meeting by January 1, 2027, and will report its progress and recommendations annually to the Governor and legislative leaders.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://alison.legislature.state.al.us/bill-search