S. 950 would develop and maintain an integrated system of coastal and ocean observations for the Nation's coasts, oceans, and Great Lakes, it would improve warnings of tsunami, hurricanes, El Nino events, and other natural hazards, it would enhance homeland security, it would support maritime operations, and it would improve management of coastal and marine resources.
Detailed Summary
Ocean and Coastal Observation System Act of 2007 - Directs the President, acting through the National Ocean Research Leadership Council, to establish and maintain an integrated system for the timely detection and prediction of changes occurring in the ocean and coastal environment that impact the nation's social, economic, and ecological systems.
Makes the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) the lead federal agency for system implementation and administration, requiring it to establish an Integrated Ocean Observing Program Office. Requires the Council to establish in NOAA an interagency program office.
Requires establishment of a process for the certification of regional associations to be responsible for the development and operation of regional coastal and ocean observing systems.
Requires NOAA to formulate a process by which funding is made available for intramural and extramural research on new technologies for collecting data on U.S. coastal and ocean waters.<br>
Authorizes departments and agencies represented on the Council to participate in interagency financing and to share funds appropriated to any Council member.
Status of the Legislation
Latest Major Action: 6/27/2007: Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. Ordered to be reported with an amendment in the nature of a substitute favorably.
Points in Favor
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Points Against
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