Save Our Seas 2.0 Amendments Act

H.R. 2620 would amend existing laws governing marine debris programs to improve how they are administered. Specifically, the bill would reorganize the Marine Debris Act to better coordinate efforts between the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Marine Debris Foundation. The changes include restructuring how the foundation operates, modifying its board of directors' appointment process, and expanding its purposes to include working with Indian Tribes and coastal communities. The bill would also update definitions used in the law to include new terms like "circular economy" and "coastal shoreline community."

If enacted, the bill would give NOAA greater flexibility to work with various stakeholders—including state and local governments, Indian Tribes, nonprofit organizations, and foreign governments—on marine debris prevention and removal efforts. The bill would extend funding authorization through fiscal year 2029. The legislation is currently in committee and has not yet been voted on by the full House. A similar bill has already passed the Senate.