This bill, titled the Sea Turtle Rescue Assistance and Rehabilitation Act of 2025, aims to bolster conservation efforts for sea turtles by establishing a dedicated grant program. It amends the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 to create separate eligibility for grants specifically focused on sea turtle rescue, rehabilitation, and response. These grants will be administered by the Secretary of Commerce and the Director of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, contingent upon the availability of appropriations. The grant criteria will largely parallel those for marine mammals but will be adapted for sea turtles and developed in consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. To be eligible, applicants must hold appropriate authorizations under the Endangered Species Act and adhere to specific care standards and data reporting requirements. Additionally, the bill establishes a new interest-bearing fund, the Sea Turtle Rescue, Rehabilitation, and Rapid Response Fund , within the Treasury to provide emergency assistance for these vital activities. This authority is slated to conclude seven years after the bill's enactment.
Sea Turtle Rescue Assistance and Rehabilitation Act of 2025
USA119th CongressHR-347| House
| Updated: 1/13/2025
This bill, titled the Sea Turtle Rescue Assistance and Rehabilitation Act of 2025, aims to bolster conservation efforts for sea turtles by establishing a dedicated grant program. It amends the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 to create separate eligibility for grants specifically focused on sea turtle rescue, rehabilitation, and response. These grants will be administered by the Secretary of Commerce and the Director of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, contingent upon the availability of appropriations. The grant criteria will largely parallel those for marine mammals but will be adapted for sea turtles and developed in consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. To be eligible, applicants must hold appropriate authorizations under the Endangered Species Act and adhere to specific care standards and data reporting requirements. Additionally, the bill establishes a new interest-bearing fund, the Sea Turtle Rescue, Rehabilitation, and Rapid Response Fund , within the Treasury to provide emergency assistance for these vital activities. This authority is slated to conclude seven years after the bill's enactment.