Hydrographic Services Improvement Amendments Act of 2015

This bill would extend funding for federal programs that map the nation’s coastal waters and maintain nautical charts used for maritime navigation. It also requires a government study to compare the costs of having these ocean surveys performed by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) versus hiring private contractors.

For everyday citizens, these services are essential for ensuring the safety of commercial shipping, recreational boating, and coastal emergency responses. By keeping nautical data up to date, the bill supports the efficient movement of goods through American ports and helps protect the environment by reducing the risk of ship groundings and accidents.