ESTUARIES Act of 2025

# ESTUARIES Act of 2025 - Plain Language Summary **What the Bill Would Do:** The ESTUARIES Act of 2025 is legislation designed to improve the health and protection of estuary ecosystems—areas where rivers meet oceans and freshwater mixes with saltwater. The bill focuses on addressing marine pollution, protecting wetlands, and improving water quality in these sensitive coastal environments. It would establish or strengthen coordination between federal, state, and local governments to manage and restore estuary areas. **Who It Affects:** This bill would impact coastal communities and states with estuaries, environmental organizations, fishing and tourism industries that depend on healthy estuaries, and government agencies involved in environmental protection.

Estuaries support important fisheries and wildlife habitats, so the bill could affect anyone who relies on seafood or recreational activities in these areas. **Current Status:** The bill is currently in committee (S 2063), sponsored by Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-Rhode Island). This means it has been introduced but has not yet been voted on by the full Senate. The bill remains in the early stages of the legislative process and would need committee approval and a full Senate vote to advance.