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Last week, the U.S. House of Representatives Natural Resources Committee introduced the Ocean-Based Climate Solutions Act (H.R.8632) – which takes steps to address the ocean impacts of climate change and reform federal ocean management to better account for climate mitigation. While NMMA has not taken a stance on the overall package, NMMA supports the bill’s provision related to the 30x30 initiative.

“The 30x30 measure included in the Ocean-Based Climate Solutions Act strikes a well-balanced, much needed approach to combating the devastating effects of climate change and protecting outdoor recreation opportunities, and the National Marine Manufacturers Association is proud to support this vital effort,” said Nicole Vasilaros, NMMA’s senior vice president of government and legal affairs. “By prohibiting destructive and extractive commercial activity in 30 percent of our nation’s oceans and land by 2030, we can make significant improvements to the health of our environment while, simultaneously, ensuring the $778 billion outdoor recreation economy – which is led by boating and fishing – can continue supporting millions of American jobs for generations to come.”

“Recreational anglers and boaters are America’s original environmentalists and directly contribute hundreds of millions of dollars to aquatic conservation and education programs each year. As a community dependent on clean water, healthy fisheries, and reasonable and responsible access to our natural resources, implementing and achieving the 30x30 mission will put us on a trajectory towards maintaining and advancing these objectives. On behalf of the uniquely American-made recreational boating industry, NMMA strongly encourages all members of Congress to support this 30x30 initiative.”

NMMA will continue to monitor the progress of this legislation and advocate for the industry’s priorities with policymakers. For more information, please contact NMMA director of federal government relations, Clay Crabtree at [email protected].