Jared Huffman: “This bipartisan amendment would stop the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration from moving forward with a…”

“This bipartisan amendment would stop the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration from moving forward with a rulemaking that would change the Federal consistency process under the Coastal Zone Management Act, known as the CZMA. The purpose of the CZMA is to give coastal States a strong voice in Federal agency decisionmaking for activities that affect a State's coastal uses and resources, including Outer Continental Shelf oil and gas development. Federal consistency is the cornerstone of the CZMA. It provides the platform and process for coordination between States, industry, and stakeholders; helps anticipate and proactively avoid conflict; and helps protect the interests of coastal communities. It is a prime example of successful cooperative federalism, and it is key to long- term management of coasts around the country. NOAA published an advanced notice of proposed rulemaking in March regarding changes to the Federal consistency regulations to make the process ``more efficient,'' but there are already clear guidelines and timelines for Federal consistency review, and it has a proven track record of efficiency and cooperation. It is clear that there is no need for NOAA to change the process. Maintaining the Federal consistency process is especially critical now, as this administration continues to look for ways to get around the clear opposition to offshore drilling from coastal States, communities, and elected officials from both sides of the aisle.…”