Us Congress Senate Bill SB5359

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 11/20/24
• Refer: 11/20/24

Caption

A bill to amend the National Marine Sanctuary Act to prohibit requiring an authorization for the installation, operation, maintenance, repair, or recovery of undersea fiber optic cables in a national marine sanctuary if such activities have previously been authorized by a Federal or State agency.

Impact

The intended impact of SB5359 is to streamline the regulatory process for the installation and maintenance of undersea fiber optic cables, which are essential for telecommunications. By eliminating redundant authorization requirements, proponents of this bill argue it will encourage more efficient deployment of fiber optic infrastructure, thereby potentially enhancing connectivity and communications capabilities along the coasts and possibly stimulating economic growth. This legislative change may lead to a more favorable investment climate for companies involved in telecommunications.

Summary

SB5359 seeks to amend the National Marine Sanctuary Act by prohibiting the requirement for additional authorization for the installation, operation, maintenance, repair, or recovery of undersea fiber optic cables in areas designated as national marine sanctuaries. This bill is significant as it essentially allows activities associated with undersea cables to proceed without the need for further approvals if such activities have already been authorized by federal or state agencies. As a result, it addresses potential bureaucratic hurdles that can delay critical infrastructure projects in marine environments.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB5359 may arise from environmental groups who express concern regarding the impacts of undersea cable installation on marine ecosystems. Critics of the bill may argue that removing the requirement for further authorizations could overlook necessary environmental assessments and protections that would typically be mandated. This can raise questions about the long-term implications for the preservation of marine sanctuaries and biodiversity. Balancing infrastructure development with environmental conservation will likely be a focal point of debate as the bill progresses.