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Whale Protection and Clean Air: Voluntary Ship Speed Reduction Program.

This Act establishes a program encouraging large commercial vessels to voluntarily reduce their speed along the US West Coast. The goal is to protect whales from fatal strikes and decrease air pollution and underwater noise. Shipping companies that maintain speeds of 10 knots or less receive annual excellence awards, contributing indirectly to a healthier environment for citizens.
Key points
A new program offers awards to vessels that voluntarily slow down to protect marine life and reduce emissions.
Environmental benefits include reduced air pollution (including greenhouse gases) and quieter oceans along the western US coast.
Participation is entirely voluntary; the law does not impose mandatory speed limits or financial penalties.
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Expired
Citizen Poll
No votes cast
Additional Information
Print number: 118_HR_8726
Sponsor: Rep. Carbajal, Salud O. [D-CA-24]
Process start date: 2024-06-13
Lustra uses Artificial Intelligence. Verify details in source documents.
Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-09-2025
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Alan S. Lowenthal Blue Whales, Blue Skies Act

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 118_HR_8726.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2024-06-13.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • A new program offers awards to vessels that voluntarily slow down to protect marine life and reduce emissions.
  • Environmental benefits include reduced air pollution (including greenhouse gases) and quieter oceans along the western US coast.
  • Participation is entirely voluntary; the law does not impose mandatory speed limits or financial penalties.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Rep. Carbajal, Salud O. [D-CA-24].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Referred to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-25.

CATEGORIES

Environment Transport