House Resolution 8704, introduced by Representatives Buddy Carter (R-GA-01) and Mary Peltola (D-AK), seeks to address concerns about the impact of speed regulations on both the boating community and the endangered North American Right Whale. The bill specifically limits NOAA’s ability to issue new vessel speed reduction mandates in areas frequented by recreational boaters. By placing restrictions on new regulations, H.R. 8704 aims to balance whale protection with the interests of the boating community.

Additionally, the legislation establishes a grant program to support innovative technologies that can help detect and track right whales. These grants would encourage the development of real-time monitoring systems to alert boaters of whale presence, offering an alternative to speed reductions as a means of protecting this endangered species. If enacted, the bill could reshape NOAA’s approach to marine conservation while promoting responsible, tech-driven solutions to protect right whales.