Modernizing Access to Our Public Oceans Act
Sponsored By: Senator Cruz, Ted [R-TX]
Passed Senate
Summary
This bill would standardize and publish geospatial data on Federal waterways so maps of fishing closures, recreational vessel access, and navigation info are easy to find. It sets deadlines for the Commerce Department to adopt data standards and put GIS layers on a public website.
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Bill Overview
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Public maps for fishing and boating
The bill would require public maps and data for the U.S. ocean zone used by boaters and anglers. The main dataset would be online within 4 years. Sharing standards would be set within 31 months. Safety and navigation data would update at least twice each year. Boundaries and protected‑area rules would update in real time. The site would make data easy to find and reuse, send update notices, and take public comments. It would also host navigation and depth charts. It would not post archaeological site details or proprietary commercial fishing data. Usual and accustomed Tribal fishing areas and Tribal waters would be excluded.
No change to waters or Tribal rights
The bill would not change what “navigable waters” means. It would not change Federal or State powers to regulate those waters. It would not change who manages fisheries. It would not satisfy or replace required government‑to‑government consultation with Tribes or Native Hawaiian organizations. It would not change any Tribal treaty or other rights.
Sponsors & CoSponsors
Sponsor
Cruz, Ted [R-TX]
TX • R
Cosponsors
Sen. King, Angus S., Jr. [I-ME]
ME • I
Sponsored 2/26/2025
Roll Call Votes
No roll call votes available for this bill.
View on Congress.gov