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Offshore Platforms Become Artificial Reefs: Boosting Marine Habitat and Fishing

This law streamlines the process for converting inactive offshore oil and gas platforms and pipelines into permanent artificial reefs, enhancing marine ecosystems and fishing opportunities. Companies can leave these structures in place if they meet strict safety and environmental criteria, transferring long-term liability to state programs in exchange for sharing decommissioning cost savings. This change benefits citizens through improved recreational and commercial fishing and healthier ocean environments.
Key points
Allows oil and gas companies to convert unused offshore structures into artificial reefs instead of full removal, promoting marine life.
Liability for the permanent reef is transferred from the company to a State program, funded by a portion of the company's cost savings from not removing the structure.
The process includes mandatory environmental assessments and requires structures to maintain navigational safety and be free of hazardous materials.
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Introduced
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Additional Information
Print number: 119_HR_5745
Sponsor: Rep. Ezell, Mike [R-MS-4]
Process start date: 2025-10-14
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

Marine Fisheries Habitat Protection Act

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 119_HR_5745.

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 2025-10-14.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Allows oil and gas companies to convert unused offshore structures into artificial reefs instead of full removal, promoting marine life.
  • Liability for the permanent reef is transferred from the company to a State program, funded by a portion of the company's cost savings from not removing the structure.
  • The process includes mandatory environmental assessments and requires structures to maintain navigational safety and be free of hazardous materials.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Introduced.

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. Ezell, Mike [R-MS-4].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Referred to the Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-23.

CATEGORIES

Environment Economy