Coastal Communities Ocean Acidification Act of 2025

# Coastal Communities Ocean Acidification Act of 2025 – Plain Language Summary **What the Bill Would Do** The Coastal Communities Ocean Acidification Act of 2025 is a proposal to address ocean acidification, which occurs when the ocean absorbs carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and becomes more acidic. This process harms marine life, particularly shellfish, fish larvae, and coral. The bill would direct federal resources and research toward understanding and mitigating ocean acidification's effects, with a focus on protecting coastal communities and the fishing industries they depend on. **Who It Affects** This bill primarily impacts coastal communities, commercial and recreational fishers, shellfish harvesters, and the seafood industry.

It would also affect marine ecosystems and wildlife. The legislation is sponsored by Representative Chellie Pingree, a Democrat from Maine, a state heavily dependent on fishing and seafood industries vulnerable to ocean acidification. **Current Status** As of now, the bill is in committee, meaning it has been introduced but has not yet been debated or voted on by the full House of Representatives. It remains in the early stages of the legislative process.