BEACH Act of 2024 Beaches Environmental Assessment and Coastal Health Act of 2024
Impact
The bill's provisions will enable states to receive grants for identifying specific sources of contamination that affect coastal waters. This includes not only the coastal areas themselves but also nearby shallow upstream waters. By encouraging state governments to investigate contamination sources, the legislation aims to promote public health and safety in recreational waters, ensuring that they meet health standards established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The amendment also increases the authorization of funding for fiscal years 2025 to 2029, demonstrating a long-term commitment to coastal water quality initiatives.
Summary
House Bill 7203, known as the Beaches Environmental Assessment and Coastal Health Act of 2024 (BEACH Act), aims to amend the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to enhance grants for beach monitoring and improve coastal water quality. The legislation is designed to address the need for better monitoring of coastal recreational waters and the health risks associated with water contamination, particularly at popular beach locations. The bill proposes to expand existing grant programs to allow state and local governments to implement effective measures for monitoring and reporting on water quality, especially in areas of public access like beaches.
Contention
While most stakeholders recognize the importance of safeguarding public health at coastal recreation sites, there are potential points of contention regarding funding allocation and compliance requirements that could burden state and local governments. Some advocates argue that without sufficient funding, the objectives laid out in the bill may not be fully realized. Additionally, there may be concerns regarding the efficacy of the monitoring programs and the actual implementation of the findings, as local governments could face challenges based on resource availability and existing infrastructure. Thus, a balanced approach that includes both adequate funding and clear operational guidelines will be essential for the success of the BEACH Act.
To amend the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972 to allow the Secretary of Commerce to establish a Coastal and Estuarine Resilience and Restoration Program, and for other purposes.