Ocean Regional Opportunity and Innovation Act of 2023
The bill authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to designate at least seven Ocean Innovation Clusters across different regions, including the Great Lakes and Gulf of Mexico. Each designated cluster is expected to manage facilities that facilitate cross-sector collaboration and support vibrant marine-dependent communities. The clusters would be tasked with various functions including creating workspaces for entrepreneurs, enhancing the sustainability of seafood supply chains, and developing the next generation of workers in the Blue Economy. The implementation of these clusters is expected to have significant implications for coastal economic development and jobs related to marine industries.
SB1806, titled the 'Ocean Regional Opportunity and Innovation Act of 2023', aims to establish Ocean Innovation Clusters to enhance the coastal communities and blue economy in the United States. The bill's primary objectives include fostering technological research and development, job training, and promoting partnerships across various sectors. By providing grants to designated Ocean Innovation Clusters, the legislation intends to boost economic growth and sustainability in marine and coastal regions.
Notably, discussions around SB1806 highlight concerns regarding funding and the effectiveness of the proposed grant system, as well as the ongoing need for regulatory alignment among various federal and state agencies involved in marine economy work. There is also an emphasis on ensuring that the clusters include diverse populations and serve underrepresented communities, which may pivot the focus of the legislation to incorporate equity into economic development within the Blue Economy.