Bill > HB619

This bill establishes the Habitat Policy Oversight Committee within the Marine Resources Commission to advise the Commission and its Habitat Management Division on policies related to marine and coastal resources, and to support the Commission's efforts to build resilience against the impacts of climate change, such as rising sea levels. The Committee will consist of nine voting members appointed by the Secretary of Natural and Historic Resources, representing diverse expertise including marine science, local government, environmental advocacy, and industry, along with two non-voting ex-officio members: the Chief of the Habitat Management Division and the Deputy Commissioner of the Marine Resources Commission. The Committee is tasked with reviewing and recommending improvements to the Division's policies and procedures, advising on mitigation strategies for natural resources, providing input on major regulatory changes, ensuring consistency with state resilience plans, and recommending actions to advance the goals of the Chesapeake Bay Agreement, ultimately submitting an annual report of its findings and recommendations to the full Commission.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20261/HB619