Sand Acquisition, Nourishment, and Development Act of 2023 or the SAND Act of 2023 This bill allows the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to acquire fill material for beach erosion and nourishment purposes from non-domestic sources even if such materials are available from domestic sources.
This bill represents a significant shift in how beach nourishment projects are managed under federal law. By permitting the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to look beyond domestic suppliers, the bill seeks to ensure faster and more cost-effective solutions for protecting coastlines against erosion, which can be exacerbated by climate change. Such changes could mean that coastal communities facing immediate threats from erosion may receive necessary materials without the delays associated with sourcing from local providers. However, it raises questions about the implications for domestic contractors and suppliers who may miss out on federal contracts.
SB47, also known as the Sand Acquisition, Nourishment, and Development Act of 2023, aims to amend the Water Resources Development Act of 1986 by altering the provisions regarding the acquisition of beach fill materials for erosion control. The bill allows the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to source fill material from non-domestic entities, even when comparable materials are available from domestic sources. This flexibility is intended to streamline processes and respond to urgent needs in coastal area management and beach nourishment projects.
There may be contention surrounding the bill relating to the balance between expedience in acquiring fill materials and the economic impacts on domestic suppliers. Critics may argue that allowing for non-domestic sourcing could undermine local businesses and lead to job losses in the areas that rely on these contracts. Proponents, however, will likely highlight the necessity of protecting coastal areas from erosion and the potential for this legislation to provide essential funding and support to coastal restoration efforts efficiently.