US Congress introduces new bill to block boat speed rule proposal
A bipartisan bill has been introduced in the US House of Representatives and US Senate to delay funding for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) proposed speed restrictions for boats measuring 35-65 feet.
The bill argues that funding should be withheld until the Department of Commerce fully implements new monitoring systems for North Atlantic right whales.
The bill introduction follows the introduction of a similar bill by two senators in June.
NOAA Fisheries is proposing changes to the North Atlantic right whale (Eubalaena glacialis) vessel speed regulations to further reduce the likelihood of mortalities and serious injuries to right whales from vessel collisions.