HR663-119

What This Bill Does

This resolution-style bill states congressional findings that deep seabed mining poses major risks to ocean ecosystems, including species loss, sediment plumes, noise pollution, contamination of commercial fish species, and effects on carbon storage. It then declares that no mining in the international seabed area should occur until the International Seabed Authority adopts a full, binding, scientifically grounded regulatory framework that protects the marine environment under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. Until the President certifies that such regulations exist and submits a report to Congress, the President must direct United States representatives in relevant international organizations to call for a moratorium on permitting deep seabed mining and exploration and to oppose investments, financing, or other support for those activities.

Who Benefits and How

Marine ecosystems benefit because the bill pushes the United States toward a moratorium until science and regulation are stronger. Fisheries, coastal communities, and indigenous peoples that rely on ocean ecosystems benefit from a precautionary stance against mining that could damage food fish, habitat, and carbon-storage functions. Environmental organizations benefit from a formal United States position opposing permits and financing. Congress benefits from a certification and report before the United States shifts away from the moratorium position.

Who Bears the Burden and How

The President and United States representatives to international organizations must use diplomatic voice, vote, and influence against seabed-mining permits and financing until certification and reporting conditions are met. Mining companies and project financiers face reduced United States diplomatic support and potential opposition in international organizations. The International Seabed Authority faces pressure to produce binding regulations based on scientific consensus. Federal agencies must prepare the required certification and report before any policy change.

Key Provisions

• Directs United States representatives to call for a moratorium on deep seabed mining and exploration permits.
• Requires United States representatives to oppose investments, financing, or other support for deep seabed mining.
• Requires presidential certification that International Seabed Authority regulations are scientifically informed and protective before the moratorium position can end.
• Requires a report to Congress detailing the regulations, scientific consensus, and environmental protection methods.
• Protects ocean ecosystems, fisheries, indigenous peoples, and coastal communities by applying a precautionary standard.