Detailed Summary

Federal Ocean Acidification Research And Monitoring Act of 2007 or FOARAM Act - Establishes the Interagency Committee on Ocean Acidification to oversee the planning, establishment, and coordination of a plan to improve the understanding of the role of increased ocean acidification on marine ecosystems and to develop adaptation techniques to effectively conserve marine ecosystems as they cope with ocean acidification.

Requires a triennial report to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Science and Technology of the House of Representatives containing a summary of federally funded ocean acidification research and monitoring activities, an analysis of the progress made toward achieving certain goals and priorities, and recommendations for future activities, including policy recommendations.

Requires the Committee to develop a strategic research and implementation plan for coordinated federal activities.

Directs the Secretary of Commerce to establish and maintain an ocean acidification program within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to implement such strategic research and implementation plan.

Authorizes appropriations to NOAA to carry out this Act.

Requires that, of amounts made available to carry out this Act: (1) the Secretary of Commerce make at least 60% available to other departments and agencies; and (2) at least 50% be allocated for competitive grants.

Status of the Legislation

Latest Major Action: 7/10/2008: Received in the Senate. Read twice. Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 873.

Points in Favor

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Points Against

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