Political Quotes

“S. 22, the Omnibus Public Land Management Act, includes five bills vital for increasing our Nation's understanding of our oceans, Great Lakes, and coastal areas. The ocean bills included in this package are all strong bipartisan pieces of legislation that were favorably reported by the Senate Commerce Committee in the 110th Congress and passed the House of Representatives. The oceans cover two-thirds of our planet, yet we know little about what lies beneath them or how the changing climate is affecting marine resources. Millions of Americans depend directly and indirectly on healthy and bountiful oceans. In 2007, our Nation's coastal economies contributed nearly 50 percent, or $6.7 trillion, to the national gross domestic product. While our Nation relies on our ocean, Great Lakes, and coastal resources, tremendous gaps exist in our knowledge of these ecosystems. The Senate Commerce Committee provisions included in S. 22 will strengthen and improve our marine, coastal, and scientific programs, and will help us make the best possible decisions about how to manage, conserve, and protect these valuable resources. The Ocean Exploration and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, NOAA, Undersea Research Program Act, included in this package, will give us a better understanding of our marine ecosystems and resources. This legislation reflects a long history of bipartisan collaboration in the Senate.”