Bill Summary
The "Save Our Seas 2.0 Marine Debris Infrastructure Programs Reauthorization Act" is legislation aimed at extending the authorization of certain programs established under the Save Our Seas 2.0 Act, specifically those administered by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that focus on combating plastic waste and marine debris. This act amends Section 302(g) of the original Save Our Seas 2.0 Act by changing the expiration date of these programs from 2025 to 2030, thereby ensuring continuity and support for ongoing efforts to address plastic pollution in marine environments. The act emphasizes the importance of infrastructure development to mitigate marine debris, reflecting a commitment to environmental protection and sustainability. The Senate passed this act on November 19, 2025.
Possible Impacts
The "Save Our Seas 2.0 Marine Debris Infrastructure Programs Reauthorization Act" could affect people in several ways:
1. **Improved Public Health**: By reauthorizing Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) programs to combat plastic waste, the Act may lead to cleaner waterways and beaches. This can reduce health risks associated with polluted water, such as waterborne diseases and contamination of seafood, thus benefiting communities that rely on these resources for their health and livelihoods.
2. **Economic Opportunities**: The reauthorization of EPA programs could stimulate job creation in sectors focused on waste management, recycling, and environmental restoration. Communities may see an increase in employment opportunities related to marine debris cleanup initiatives, recycling programs, and the development of new technologies aimed at reducing plastic waste.
3. **Enhanced Environmental Awareness**: The Act may lead to increased public education and awareness initiatives about marine debris and plastic waste. This could foster a more environmentally conscious society, encouraging individuals and businesses to adopt sustainable practices, reduce plastic usage, and participate in community cleanup efforts, leading to a collective effort to protect marine ecosystems.
[Congressional Bills 119th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[S. 3022 Engrossed in Senate (ES)]
<DOC>
119th CONGRESS
1st Session
S. 3022
_______________________________________________________________________
AN ACT
To amend the Save Our Seas 2.0 Act to reauthorize certain Environmental
Protection Agency programs, and for other purposes.
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
United States of America in Congress assembled,
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Save Our Seas 2.0 Marine Debris
Infrastructure Programs Reauthorization Act''.
SEC. 2. REAUTHORIZATION OF EPA PROGRAMS TO COMBAT PLASTIC WASTE.
Section 302(g) of the Save Our Seas 2.0 Act (33 U.S.C. 4282(g)) is
amended, in each of paragraphs (1) and (2)--
(1) by inserting ``in'' after ``described''; and
(2) by striking ``2025'' and inserting ``2030''.
Passed the Senate November 19, 2025.
Attest:
Secretary.
119th CONGRESS
1st Session
S. 3022
_______________________________________________________________________
AN ACT
To amend the Save Our Seas 2.0 Act to reauthorize certain Environmental
Protection Agency programs, and for other purposes.