The Biden-Harris administration announced a $2.6 billion framework through Investing in America Agenda to aid in the protection and restoration of coastal communities and marine resources.
The U.S. Department of Commerce announced the investment to enhance coastal climate resilience through President Joe Biden's Inflation Reduction Act, according to a June 6 news release. This initiative will allocate approximately $400 million for Tribal priorities and benefit coastal and Great Lakes communities with a focus on environmental justice.
“Under President Biden’s leadership, we are making the most significant direct investment in climate resilience in the nation’s history," Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo said in the release. "As part of our more than $2.6 billion investment in regional coastal resiliency and conservation projects, we will be dedicating $390 million directly to Tribal priorities for habitat restoration and bolstering fish populations, and supplying crucial funding to ensure our coastal communities are better prepared for the effects of climate change."
The funding will also improve weather and climate data, support conservation efforts and strengthen the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's research capabilities, the release reported.
The investment framework includes specific programs to support coastal communities, according to the release. These include a regional grant program for coastal resilience, funding for Tribal initiatives, projects to conserve fisheries and protected species, a business accelerator program for resilience products and services and a workforce development program.
The framework also encompasses funding for other programs, such as the Integrated Ocean Observing System, marine and Great Lakes sanctuary designations, technical assistance and the Pacific Coastal Salmon Recovery Fund, the release reported.
The $2.6 billion investment aims to provide resources and support for communities, especially Tribes and vulnerable populations, to adapt and build resilience to weather and climate events, the release said. The funding will strengthen workforce development, marine resources, nature-based solutions, conservation efforts, regional partnerships and Tribal priorities.
It will also complement the investments outlined in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, including climate-ready coast awards and various programs to aid in climate resilience, according to the release.
