Northwest Straits Marine Conservation Initiative Reauthorization Act of 2025
Sponsored By: Senator Murray, Patty [D-WA]
In Committee
Summary
Reauthorizes and modernizes the Northwest Straits Advisory Commission to coordinate science-based restoration and stewardship of the Puget Sound and adjacent waters. It creates a clear governance and funding framework, strengthens Tribal partnerships, and expands federal, state, and local coordination to protect habitats and fisheries.
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- Coastal families and local economies: Focuses projects on measurable habitat and population recovery to support fisheries, recreation, and jobs that depend on healthy marine ecosystems.
- Tribal governments: Expands Tribal partnerships, requires consultation to protect treaty rights, and reserves two Tribal-appointed seats on the 14-member Commission to improve Tribal representation and access to technical support.
- Local governments, volunteers, and federal partners: Establishes a 14-member Commission with regular meetings, a nonvoting NOAA liaison, and authority to use cooperative agreements with the State of Washington and nonprofits (for example, the Northwest Straits Foundation). It requires annual public reports with benchmarks, allows donations, and does not authorize the Commission to issue regulations.
*Authorizes at least $78.0 million in federal funding for FY2026–2031 ($10 million per year plus $3 million per year) and allows additional sums after FY2031, increasing federal outlays if appropriated.*
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Bill Overview
Analyzed Economic Effects
6 provisions identified: 5 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
New funding for regional conservation
If enacted, the bill would authorize $10 million per year for fiscal years 2026–2031 to carry out this title, plus an extra $3 million per year for those same years. That totals $13 million per year for FY2026–FY2031. For FY2032 and later, it would authorize such sums as may be necessary.
Annual reports with performance benchmarks
If enacted, the Commission would have to prepare a public annual report for Congress and the Under Secretary. The report would show progress on benchmarks like habitat restoration, restoring marine populations, improving water quality, collecting ecosystem data, and outreach to underresourced communities.
New partnership and donation powers
If enacted, the Commission could enter cooperative agreements with nonprofits and the State of Washington for staffing, administration, and financial assistance. The Under Secretary could provide assistance through a contract with the Padilla Bay Reserve unless the Washington Governor objects. The Commission could also accept gifts, devises, and bequests without additional federal approval.
NOAA liaison to the commission
If enacted, the Under Secretary would appoint a NOAA employee to serve as a liaison between NOAA and the Commission to coordinate NOAA programs with Commission goals. The liaison could attend Commission meetings as a nonvoting participant if agreed. The liaison's service would be limited to the coordination role and would not require performing Commission duties.
Stronger Tribal consultation and support
If enacted, the bill would require the Commission to consult all affected Tribal governments to ensure its work does not violate Tribal treaty rights. The Commission would also have to provide technical support and assistance to any Tribal government that seeks representation or participation.
New commission makeup and limits
If enacted, the bill would create a 14-member Northwest Straits Commission with specific slots for seven county representatives, two Tribal representatives, one Puget Sound Partnership member, and four Governor appointees. The Commission would pick a Chair, fill vacancies the same way, and meet at least quarterly. The bill would also say the Commission may not issue regulations or implement Federal law.
Sponsors & CoSponsors
Sponsor
Murray, Patty [D-WA]
WA • D
Cosponsors
Sen. Cantwell, Maria [D-WA]
WA • D
Sponsored 4/10/2025
Roll Call Votes
No roll call votes available for this bill.
View on Congress.gov