Nassau Standard

Congressman D’Esposito (NY-04) and Congressman Mike Levin (CA-49) introduced the bipartisan Modernizing Access to Our Public Oceans (MAPSOceans) Act, aiming to provide standardized, published, and accessible data on Federal waterways utilized for recreational purposes. The bill focuses on digitizing information about Federal waterways and fishing restrictions to enhance the safety of recreational boaters and anglers off the nation's coasts.

Rep. D’Esposito emphasized the importance of the bill for residents utilizing the coastal areas, stating, "Providing those who enjoy our region’s coastal environs with standardized, up-to-date, and accessible information will help residents better connect with nature while simultaneously." Rep. Levin echoed this sentiment, highlighting the significance of having access to information about coastal areas for outdoor activities, stating, "This bill would ensure everyone has the information they need to enjoy our beautiful waterways and protect them for years to come."

Support for the MAPSOceans Act has been strong from various organizations. The American Fishing Association expressed its support, with Mike Leonard stating, "The MAPOceans Act will ensure both lifelong anglers and newcomers can navigate area closures and tackle regulations by making regulatory information accessible." The Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership also commended the legislation, with Becky Humphries noting that it will help clarify and make publicly available information about federal regulations related to marine areas.

Chad Tokowicz from the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas emphasized the importance of compliance with federal regulations for protecting habitat and sport-fish populations, stating, "The MAPOceans Act will make it easier for recreational boaters and anglers to seamlessly navigate our Federal waterways and comply with fisheries regulations." Dr. Bruce Pohlot from the International Game Fish Association highlighted the importance of the Act in providing updated information for recreational anglers to operate sustainably and safely.

The Center for Sportfishing Policy praised the Act for bridging the gap in understanding ocean navigation rules, with President Jeff Angers stating, "This legislation empowers anglers to navigate confidently and enhances recreational opportunities." The Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation also lauded the legislation, with Chris Horton emphasizing that it will remove uncertainties that can hinder angler participation on coastal waters.

The National Marine Manufacturers Association supported the Act, with Callie Hoyt stating, "NMMA applauds Representatives D’Esposito and Levin for spearheading this important legislation to digitize ocean recreation and navigation data." The organization highlighted the economic benefits of recreational boating and expressed pleasure in supporting legislation that strengthens this critical sector of the economy.

The bipartisan MAPSOceans Act has garnered widespread support from various sectors, all recognizing its potential to enhance access to information on Federal waterways and improve the recreational experiences of boaters and anglers.