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Alabama Underwater Forest: New National Marine Sanctuary and Protection.

This Act establishes the Alabama Underwater Forest National Marine Sanctuary to protect ancient cypress trees off the coast. While strict prohibitions are placed on activities that could damage the forest (like dredging or drilling), the law explicitly allows popular public uses such as fishing, diving, and the construction of artificial reefs. This ensures the preservation of a unique environment while supporting local recreation and tourism.
Key points
Designates a specific area off the coast of Alabama as a National Marine Sanctuary to protect the ancient underwater cypress forest.
Prohibits destructive activities like seabed drilling, dredging, tree removal, and the use of explosives within the Sanctuary boundaries.
Recreational and commercial activities such as fishing, diving, mooring, and building artificial reefs are specifically exempted from the prohibitions and remain permitted.
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Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_4816
Sponsor: Sen. Tuberville, Tommy [R-AL]
Process start date: 2024-07-25
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Summarized by: gemini-flash-latest
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Alabama Underwater Forest National Marine Sanctuary and Protection Act

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 118_S_4816.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2024-07-25.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Designates a specific area off the coast of Alabama as a National Marine Sanctuary to protect the ancient underwater cypress forest.
  • Prohibits destructive activities like seabed drilling, dredging, tree removal, and the use of explosives within the Sanctuary boundaries.
  • Recreational and commercial activities such as fishing, diving, mooring, and building artificial reefs are specifically exempted from the prohibitions and remain permitted.
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 Sen. Tuberville, Tommy [R-AL].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Introduced in Senate

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-26.

CATEGORIES

Environment