U.S. Congressman Mike Ezell (R-MS-04) and Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR-01) introduced the bipartisan Regional Ocean Partnership Reauthorization Act on Oct. 6, 2026.
If passed by Congress and signed by the President, the Act will reauthorize Regional Ocean Partnerships (ROPs) for the next five years and bring continued support for voluntary, intergovernmental coordination to address ocean and coastal issues. Regional Ocean Partnerships have operated for nearly two decades and were formally authorized by Congress in 2022. They focus on issues that are identified by the member states, provide a voice for a wide variety of stakeholders, and foster intentional, efficient coordination on shared priorities. Regional Ocean Partnerships also leverage public and private funding to accomplish objectives common to multiple stakeholders across the region, reducing duplication. All ROPs implement projects that address their priorities and benefit from a regional approach.
“Regional Ocean Partnerships give states and local stakeholders a seat at the table when it comes to protecting these resources and addressing the challenges facing our coastal communities,” said Congressman Ezell.
Go to Congress.gov to follow the progress of H.R. 10756.
Read the full press release from Congressman Mike Ezell.
